Record international tourism in February injects USD 823 million in Brazil

Brazil broke a new record for international tourism in February 2025: foreign visitors injected USD 823 million into the Brazilian economy in the second month of the year. This is a 22% increase over the same month in 2024, when spending added up to USD 673 million, according to data released by the Central Bank (Banco Central do Brasil) and compiled by the Ministry of Tourism (Ministério do Turismo).

BIMONTHLY — The accumulated revenue generated by tourists from other countries in the first two months of this year has already reached USD 1.628 billion. This is the highest amount since the Central Bank began its historical series in 1970. Last year, January and February added up to BRL 1.474 billion. These numbers reflect expenses referring to accommodation, food, transportation, tours, shopping, and other economic activities that are directly connected to the tourism sector.

ARRIVALS — In February alone, 1.3 million international travelers landed in Brazil — a 59% increase compared to the same month in 2024. When looking at the data from January and February, Brazil has already registered 2.8 million tourists  coming from other countries to national destinations. The data is from the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the Brazilian Tourist Board (Agência Brasileira de Turismo/EMBRATUR) and the Federal Police (Polícia Federal).

BOOST — According to the Minister of Tourism, Celso Sabino, the positive results were achieved due to efforts to promote the country abroad, and to improve the services that are offered locally. “We are reaping the rewards of investments in international promotion, infrastructure and qualification. Tourism is a powerful tool for generating inclusion, jobs and income for our people,” emphasized the minister.

“In addition to boosting sectors such as commerce, services, and transportation, the increased spending by foreigners strengthens local economies, encourages new investments, and contributes to the sustainable development of several Brazilian tourist destinations,” added Celso Sabino.

According EMBRATUR President Marcelo Freixo, the figures demonstrate the country's potential as a competitive destination on the global stage. "Brazil is fashionable, but it is also thanks to the joint work of the public and private sectors that this growing interest in getting to know us is accompanied by increased air connectivity and the supply of tourist packages abroad with destinations to Brazil, ensuring that these tourists were able to come and visit us," Freixo highlighted.

EVENTS — This year's calendar of international events is expected to attract even more visitors to Brazil. The BRICS Summit, to be held in Rio de Janeiro in July, will once again put the country in the global spotlight, bringing together leaders and representatives from main emerging economies. Tourist activity will be boosted by the presence of businesspeople, journalists and specific visitors to the event, strengthening the hotel network, the gastronomy sector, and other services referring to tourism.

Another international event will be held in November: the United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP30). The meeting, which will take place in the state of Pará, is expected to draw the world's attention to Brazil, generating demand for ecological and sustainable tourism in the Amazon region.