The Indian economy is the twelfth largest in the world with a GDP growth of about 7 percent in 2009. In Purchasing Power Parity GDP was 1.5 trillion US Dollars in 2008.

The Indian economy is as diverse as it is large, with major sectors including manufacturing industries, agriculture, textiles, handicrafts and services. The service sector is greatly expanding to assume an increasingly important role.

In terms of population, India ranks second with 1,1 billion people after China with 1,3 billion people. In comparison, the population of Europe is 700 million people and the United States 300 million people. 50 percent of India’s population is below the age of 23 which represents a large, young workforce. China’s median age is 30 years and Japan’s 43 years.

India’s size of 3,3 million sqkm is almost equal to Europe with 3,9 million sqkm and one third of the United States with 9,8 million sqkm.

Outbound Tourism from India:
Outbound tourism figures are steadily growing and will reach about 9 million by the end of 2009. It is expected to surpass 16 million by 2015. (Source: PATA 2008). Australia, Dubai and Malaysia follow Singapore in the list of top outbound travel destinations. Switzerland, Thailand, Britain and France also receive a growing number of visitors from India. The average spend of Indian travelers is high with a longer length of stay.

An update on destination specific outbound tourism information is available upon request.