GBTA Forecasts Record Business Travel Spending Amid Selective Trips
Global business travel expenditure is projected to reach a record $1.71 trillion this year. The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) reports this growth occurs despite slower trip volume increases. Companies are becoming more selective in their travel planning.
Global Spending Reaches New Heights
The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) forecasts global business travel expenditure to hit a record $1.71 trillion this year. This represents a 7.2% increase compared to last year's figures. Rising transportation and general travel costs primarily drive this growth, according to the GBTA's latest report. However, the number of business trips will grow more slowly.
The 2026 GBTA Business Travel Index projects trips will exceed 1.84 billion this year. This marks a 1.3% rise from 1.82 billion recorded last year. This disparity shows a shift in corporate travel strategies.
Corporate Travel Becomes More Selective
The slower growth in trip volume compared to spending reveals companies' evolving approach. GBTA CEO Suzanne Neufang stated that companies maintain travel commitments. However, they are becoming more selective and productivity-focused. This means companies are not reducing travel overall. Instead, they are scrutinising the value of each trip more closely.
The GBTA report surveyed 4,700 business travellers across 66 global markets. It highlights the dampening effect of higher costs on overall business travel demand. Edward Galvin, GBTA vice president, noted companies emphasise value as spending outpaces trip volume.
Economic Drivers and Geopolitical Risks
Several forces are shaping global business travel trends this year. These include resilient economic growth across various regions. Strong business investment also contributes to the increase in spending. Elevated transportation costs continue to influence travel budgets significantly.
Heightened political uncertainty remains a key concern for organisations planning international trips. GBTA's April 2026 findings identified geopolitical instability as the most significant external risk. This risk influences business travel decisions throughout the current year. The report also noted growing pessimism among business travellers during the first three months of this year.
AI Investment Fuels North American Growth
In North America, artificial intelligence (AI) related investment emerges as a significant driver for business travel growth. Investments in digital infrastructure, data centres, and enterprise technology deployment are fuelling project-based demand. This trend creates specific opportunities for the hospitality sector.
Hotels, particularly extended stay properties, can cater to this project-driven business. Looking ahead, the GBTA projects global business travel spending will surpass $2 trillion by 2030. Sustained business investment and international commercial activity will support this long-term growth trajectory.
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