The Inatur index enables authorities to track tourism activity in real time and to improve the sector’s economic information system. Alongside Inatur, Chile also presented the Direct Tourism GDP (PIBTd), which measures tourism’s direct contribution to the national economy. Together, these tools provide both an annual overview and a quarterly monitoring framework.
The methodology adheres to international standards and was technically reviewed by the Central Bank. For the first time, the tourism sector can access periodic indicators comparable to those of other economic sectors.
Economic impact of tourism
According to the Undersecretary of Tourism, tourism accounted for 2.8% of Chile’s GDP in 2025, equivalent to USD 9.5 billion. Domestic tourism spending reached 5.4% of GDP. The sector also generates 7.6% of national employment, employing over 723,000 people.
María Paz Lagos, Undersecretary of Tourism, said:
“Today we take an important step for Chilean tourism. With Inatur and Direct Tourism GDP, the sector now has tools to measure its contribution, track progress, and make evidence-based decisions. Tourism represents real economic value, with companies, jobs, investments and opportunities behind each trip. Our goal is to recognise tourism as a driver of employment, investment and growth in Chile.”
The seminar included presentations such as Chile, Global Destination by Verónica Goldfart, Head of Travel & Finance at Google Chile, and Tourism: a Key Sector for Chile by Undersecretary Lagos. A roundtable discussion followed, involving the Centro de Estudios Públicos (CEP), Ministry of Finance, Corfo, and the Santiago Chamber of Commerce, focusing on tourism’s economic role.
Tools for strategic planning
Cristóbal Benítez, National Director of Sernatur, stated that the Inatur index provides timely and reliable information about tourism trends. He added that a quarterly indicator enables public institutions and private companies to anticipate trends, evaluate initiatives, and make data-informed decisions. This supports efficient tourism planning, promotion, and investment, contributing to sustainable sector growth.
Lorena Arriagada, Secretary General of Achet and President of Transforma Turismo, highlighted that the initiative fosters a culture of data-driven decision-making. Updated information enables better investment choices, competitiveness, and sustainable development of Chile’s tourism, while protecting people and natural resources.
The incorporation of Inatur and the Direct Tourism GDP strengthens the sector’s analytical capacity. Policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders can now monitor tourism performance more effectively and quantify its economic contribution. These tools provide a foundation for better planning, informed investment, and integration of tourism into Chile’s broader economic agenda.
Tags: María Paz Lagos Chilean tourism Lorena Arriagada, Transforma Turismo
