Business travel spending in Italy is forecast to rise 8 per cent in 2025, reaching €34 billion, according to new data from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA).
The association’s latest Business Travel Index Outlook places Italy among the world’s top ten business travel markets, with growth far outpacing other major European economies.
The GBTA report, published in July and updated this week at the GBTA Italy Conference in Milan, highlights the country’s “strong recovery” since the pandemic, fuelled by resurgent corporate demand and the return of international trade events.
Italy outpaces Germany, France and Spain
The report forecasts Italy’s business travel spending will expand twice as fast as that of Germany and France, both projected to grow by 4 per cent, while Spain’s market is expected to remain flat. The Netherlands, by contrast, is forecast to contract by 1 per cent.
This acceleration consolidates Italy’s position as one of Europe’s most resilient post-pandemic travel markets, with a trajectory that continues to outstrip regional averages.
Globally, GBTA predicts business travel expenditure will reach a record US$1.57 trillion in 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time.
Travel seen as vital for business recovery
Survey findings from the GBTA report suggest that 76 per cent of Italian business travellers have already returned to or exceeded their 2019 travel volumes, underscoring the strength of corporate mobility across key sectors.
More than 95 per cent of respondents said travel remained “worthwhile” in achieving their business objectives — a strong endorsement for in-person engagement after years of remote working and virtual meetings.
Key industries driving growth include utilities, accommodation and food services, and arts, entertainment and recreation, reflecting the breadth of Italy’s recovering economy.
Despite the optimistic outlook, GBTA warned that global economic uncertainty and volatile trade policy could threaten near-term stability in the sector.
Speaking at the Milan conference, Fulvio Origo, GBTA Italy director, said: “Italy is a global leader in business travel, with projected growth in spending for 2025 greater than other major European markets like France, Germany and Spain.
“However, the risks of trade policy uncertainty loom large for the Italian business travel sector, as they do for many others. It’s crucial for travel professionals to collaborate and share insights to navigate these challenges and ensure our industry continues to thrive.”
Analysts expect Italy’s business travel market to continue growing steadily through 2026, buoyed by sustained domestic demand, infrastructure investment, and an improving eurozone economy.
However, persistent concerns over energy prices, trade disputes and global political uncertainty could temper momentum later in the decade.
For now, Italy’s strong rebound signals confidence in face-to-face commerce — and positions the country as Europe’s standout performer in corporate travel recovery.