According to information compiled by the Encyclopedia of Tourism in Türkiye from a report prepared by Future Market Insights (FMI), the tourism sector across BRICS countries is expected to reach a market value of US$5.5 trillion by the end of 2025. The report forecasts that the market will continue to expand at an average annual growth rate of 4.2%, reaching approximately US$8.3 trillion by 2036.

BRICS, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is an international economic and political cooperation bloc. In recent years, the group has expanded to include countries such as Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates, increasing its global economic and tourism significance.

Tourism Growth Driven by Investment

The FMI report highlights that tourism within BRICS countries is experiencing robust growth, largely supported by government investments in tourism infrastructure, transportation networks, digital tourism ecosystems, and accessibility improvements. Governments in India, South Africa, China, Brazil, and Russia continue to invest heavily in airports, transportation connectivity, accommodation facilities, and tourism development programs to ensure long-term sectoral growth.

The report also notes that increasing consumer demand for personalized travel experiences, the rapid expansion of online travel agencies (OTAs), and the growing purchasing power of the middle class across BRICS economies are further strengthening market expansion. Together, these developments are transforming BRICS tourism into a major force within the global tourism industry.

Cultural and Heritage Tourism Accounts for 28 Percent

According to the report, tourism revenues across BRICS countries are projected to grow at an average annual rate of 4.2% between 2026 and 2036, with cultural and heritage tourism expected to account for 28% of total market growth.

Domestic travelers currently represent approximately 60% of the market, benefiting from rising disposable incomes, improved domestic transportation systems, and increasing governmental support for regional tourism development.

The report also emphasizes the growing importance of mobile-first booking ecosystems, smart tourism initiatives, and digital visitor engagement platforms. As a result, online travel agencies are expected to remain the dominant booking channel, accounting for around 50% of all reservations.

China, Russia, Brazil, India, and South Africa Lead Growth

Among BRICS members, the report identifies China, Russia, Brazil, India, and South Africa as the primary drivers of future market expansion.

China continues to benefit from a strong domestic tourism ecosystem and substantial infrastructure investments, supporting annual growth rates of approximately 5.2%. Russia’s tourism market is projected to expand by an average of 4.9% annually, supported by regional tourism development and modernization initiatives. In Brazil, annual growth averaging 4.5% is being driven by expanding ecotourism activities and increasing hospitality investments.

Key Industry Players

The report identifies Thomas Cook, Cox & Kings, SOTC, Kesari Tours, and Expedia as among the sector’s leading players.

According to FMI, Thomas Cook focuses on integrated tourism services and global travel infrastructure. Cox & Kings emphasizes customized travel experiences and international tour operations. SOTC strengthens its market position through regional travel expertise and diversified tourism products. Kesari Tours specializes in group travel and domestic tourism packages, while Expedia leverages digital booking ecosystems and online travel technology platforms.

The report concludes that the industry's primary competitive factors include digital booking convenience, travel package customization, customer service capabilities, geographic reach, and strategic partnerships across accommodation and transportation networks.