(Ecofin Agency) - International tourist arrivals in Africa grew by 8% in 2017, according to preliminary data provided by the latest UNWTO's world tourism barometer.

The continent consolidated its 2016 rebound with a record of 62 million international tourists in 2017. A performance that profited most North Africa where tourist arrivals rose by 13% compared to 2016. Meanwhile, arrivals in sub-Saharan Africa increased by 5%.

Worldwide, international tourist arrivals jumped by 7% reaching 1.322 billion. The rise is expected to be maintained in 2018, at a pace of 4-5%, according to UNWTO.

The barometer specified that “based on data reported by destinations around the world, it is estimated that international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) worldwide increased 7% in 2017. This is well above the sustained and consistent trend of 4% or higher growth since 2010 and represents the strongest results in seven years”.

Meanwhile, Europe recorded 671 million of international tourist arrivals. A remarkable 8% increase subsequent to a relatively low performance in 2016. As for Asia-Pacific region, it received 324 million (+6%) international tourists, while Americas have recorded 207 million (+3%) and Middle East 58 million (+5%) of the arrivals.