Archibald welcomes positive tourism figures
Date published:
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed tourism statistics for 2025, which show an increase in tourism expenditure and visitor numbers.
The NISRA statistics published today reveal an overall tourism expenditure of £1.2billion, which represents a growth of 9% compared with 2024, with overall visitor numbers also increasing by 9%.
The Minister said:
“These are very welcome statistics for our tourism industry, showing a sector that is growing steadily and demonstrating how vital it is to our economy. As Economy Minister, I have supported the sector and will continue to do so as we work to build on this positive momentum.”
The Minister continued:
“The All-Ireland economy is driving tourism growth with the latest NISRA figures showing trips by visitors from the south to the north increased by 15% in 2025. There were 1.3million trips in 2025, compared to 1.1 million in 2024. The money spent by southern visitors increased from £243million in 2024 to £317million last year – an increase of 31%.
“With Belfast hosting the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and Derry celebrating the 40th anniversary of its world-renowned Halloween Festival, we can expect this positive trend to continue.
“County Fermanagh is now also a key part of the Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands regional brand, a real asset to driving visitor numbers to this beautiful part of the world and delivering real economic benefit for the region.”
The statistics also outline an estimated 5.1 million overnight trips, 70% of these taken outside the Belfast City Council area. The Minister said:
“Tourism is one of our key successes and a regional economic driver. Visitors who visit here are spending in and supporting our tourism businesses and local communities right across the north.”
The Minister continued:
“I meet regularly with the industry to hear at first-hand the opportunities and challenges they face, and I have been hugely impressed with their optimism, drive, and ambition. I am determined to continue to work with the industry to deliver my Tourism Vision & Action Plan which aims to increase tourism expenditure to £2billion by 2035.”
Notes to editors:
- PHOTO CAPTION: Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald pictured on the Derry Walls.
- Link to the statistics
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