France overtakes the US in inbound business travel growth

Rapid growth in corporate travel and foreign investment strengthens France’s position ahead of the United States as a global business destination

France experienced a sharp increase in inbound business travel in 2025, recording the fastest growth among major global economies and surpassing the United States. According to analysis by Booking.com for Business based on UN Tourism Statistics, corporate travel visits to France rose by 53%, significantly outperforming the US, Japan, and the UK. The growth reflects a combination of economic, infrastructure, and investment factors that are strengthening France’s appeal to international companies and business travelers. The country’s continued success in attracting foreign investment further supports its growing role as one of the world’s leading business hubs.

Key takeaways

• France pulls ahead of the US: France recorded a 53% increase in inbound business travel visits in 2025, compared with 11.7% growth in the United States.
• Largest gain in visitor numbers: France added 11.6 million business traveler visits year over year, more than three times the increase recorded in the US.
• Outperforming other major economies: Business travel growth in France significantly exceeded levels seen in Japan (12.3%) and the UK (5.6%).
• Olympics infrastructure legacy: Investments linked to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games have enhanced transport and business infrastructure, supporting continued corporate travel growth.
• Paris strengthens as a business center: Ongoing financial sector consolidation and expansion of the French technology ecosystem have increased the country's attractiveness for international companies.
• Leading destination for investment: France topped EY’s European Attractiveness Survey for the seventh consecutive year, attracting 852 foreign investment projects in 2025.
• Headquarters activity rises: Projects involving corporate headquarters increased by 17% compared with 2024, reinforcing France’s role as a strategic location for international business operations.

Source: Business Traveller

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