EIC marks Global Meetings Industry Day with new economic study

The Events Industry Council marked Global Meetings Industry Day on 6 May 2026 with the release of its 2026 Global Economic Significance of Business Events Study.

The study, produced in partnership with Oxford Economics, sizes the worldwide direct GDP contribution of business events, looking at meetings, conferences, trade shows, incentives and corporate events. The Council coordinated launch activities across more than 40 countries, with regional launches led by national member federations.

EIC President & CEO Amy Calvert said the figures put the sector firmly on the agenda of ministers responsible for tourism, trade and investment. The study has been welcomed by the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and UN Tourism.