Andorra Leads World in Tourism Dependency at 71.8% of GDP

Andorra tops the global rankings for tourism dependency, with the sector accounting for 71.8% of its gross domestic product (GDP). Data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), released this May and based on international tourism figures, places the Principality ahead of Aruba at 70.3% and Macao at 70%.

The findings underscore tourism as Andorra's primary economic driver. Nearly seven out of every ten euros generated in the country stem directly from activities including hospitality, dining, retail, transport, and visitor-related services.

Other leading nations in the ranking are mainly small economies tied to vacation and luxury travel. The Maldives follows with 68% of GDP from tourism, then Seychelles at 55.4%, Saint Lucia at 51%, Antigua and Barbuda at 39.9%, Bahamas at 34.1%, Cape Verde at 27.9%, and Grenada at 26.2%.

The list highlights the structural dominance of tourism in compact, service-oriented economies with limited diversification. For Andorra, this reliance has long shaped economic and political discussions, particularly around efforts to broaden the economy and mitigate risks from mobility disruptions or shifts in visitor numbers.

In contrast, major global economies see far less tourism influence, as technology, manufacturing, finance, and domestic consumption carry greater weight in their GDP.