A groundbreaking new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals that smarter border management could supercharge the global economy, adding $401BN in GDP and creating 14MN new jobs across G20, EU, and African Union nations by 2035.

Created by WTTC in partnership with SITA, the Better Borders report shows that by embracing digital technologies and adopting smarter visa policies, governments can transform their borders into powerful national assets, boosting tourism, enhancing security, and strengthening economic competitiveness.

Smarter Borders, Stronger Economies

With Travel & Tourism forecast to reach $16.5TN in global GDP by 2035 and is expected to account for 12.5% of the world’s workforce, WTTC and SITA argue that border modernisation is now a strategic imperative.

The report outlines six key principles and 18 recommended actions designed to make travel more seamless and secure. Among its top recommendations, it calls for the full digitalisation of visas and travel authorisations, alongside the adoption of digital identities and biometric technologies to speed up and strengthen border processes.

It also urges governments to enhance cooperation across tourism, security, and finance ministries, pre-clear travellers before arrival to reduce border congestion, and build direct digital relationships with travellers to improve communication, trust, and the overall travel experience.

WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara said “Technology now allows us to achieve what was once thought impossible: stronger borders and smoother travel. By embracing digital identities, biometrics, and advanced data systems, countries can make journeys faster and more secure at the same time.

“The solutions are already here. Governments that take action today will see clear benefits tomorrow, from safer borders and greater traveller confidence to increased visitor numbers and economic growth.”

Pedro Alves, Senior Vice President, Border at SITA, added “Borders today must be dynamic, integrated, and seamless. That means adapting in real time to global events, connecting agencies around a shared view of the traveler, and delivering the seamless experience people expect.

“At the heart of this transformation is data. Specifically, the ability to trust the identity data that drives every decision. When governments can rely on high-quality data, they can move faster, act earlier, and focus resources better. That’s not just good for national security. It’s essential for tourism, trade, and the traveler experience. Now governments have the opportunity to modernize their borders and unlock the economic and social value that seamless travel can deliver.”

Global Examples of Success

Countries such as the U.S., the UAE, and Australia, are already reaping the rewards of digital transformation, demonstrating how modern border management can drive both efficiency and economic growth.

In the U.S., Customs & Border Protection (CBP), uses biometric facial comparison technology to process travellers entering the United States at 238 airports, including all 14 CBP pre-clearance locations, and 57 locations for international departures.

The UAE is using the power of AI to dramatically reduce visa processing times, with some waits cut to just hours. AI is also being used to help travellers accurately complete visa applications, eliminating significant periods of delay.

Meanwhile, Australian airports are utilising SmartGates, which use facial recognition technology to process arrivals and departures. By June 2025, 79% of all arrivals were eligible to use SmartGate technology with around three quarters of those travellers opting to use it. As a result, it has significantly reduced border clearance times.

The Future of Travel Begins at the Border

The report highlights that 75% of travellers prefer biometrics over manual processes and 85% are willing to share data in advance if it means a faster, smoother experience.

WTTC and SITA are calling on governments to act now to build “Better Borders” that balance security with seamless travel, unlocking major economic, social, and reputational benefits.