AUSTIN – Gov. Greg Abbott focused on the impact of growth in the state’s travel and tourism industry on the booming Texas economy during a fireside conversation with the U.S. Travel Association at American Airlines headquarters in Fort Worth.
“Texas is America’s economic powerhouse,” Governor Abbott said. “Texas is the No. 1 job state, ranked the best state for business by CEOs across the country for 20 years in a row, founded the Texas Stock Exchange, and is the 8th largest economy in the world. Tourism is a huge part of Texas’ economy. Over the past decade, demand and availability for hotels has increased. People love seeing everything Texas has to offer. Tourism is a big part of Texas’ success. Our strong travel and tourism industry introduces tourists, prospective residents, businesses, and CEOs to our great state every day. “Texas is a global brand, and we’re going to capitalize on that.”
During a fireside chat moderated by U.S. Travel President and CEO Jeff Freeman, the governor emphasized the state’s robust travel and tourism industry, which attracts thousands of out-of-state visitors. He listed the major sports and entertainment events that brought tourists to the state. The Red River Showdown and Austin City Limits Music Festival are held to stimulate the local Texas economy. After a roundtable with CEOs from around the country, the governor mentioned the upcoming FIFA World Cup games to be held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington and NRG Stadium in Houston, making it one of the few times Texas has hosted a major sporting event. He said that they have the facilities to do so. Host multiple matches at the world’s most popular sporting events.
