In recent years, the tourism business of Finland has grown and internationalised more rapidly than other industries. It has become a nationally important export industry and employer.
The share of tourism in the Finnish gross national product is 2.7% and the industry employs more than 140,000 people. For several years, tourism profits have reached over EUR 13 billion with chances of growing up to EUR 20 billion by 2025.
The number of international tourists has doubled in the 21st century. In 2013, the profits brought to Finland by international tourists reached EUR 4.3 billion. The tourism cluster is estimated to employ 180,000 people in 2025. The industry also has significant multiplier effects on other industries, such as construction, transportation and commerce.
However, growth does not come automatically. The demands of customers have increased, and long-term cooperation between several parties is required to realise comprehensive, high-quality experiences. The tourism proceeds of Finland can grow when the international tourist numbers increase. Tourism proceeds can also be increased by producing high-profit added value services for domestic and international tourists.