nep-tur New Economics Papers
on Tourism Economics
Issue of 2026–09–14
two papers chosen by
Laura Vici, Università di Bologna
  1. Artificial Intelligence and tourism in APEC economies: Boosting innovation and enhancing sustainability By OECD
  2. Digital nomads destination competitiveness of South Africa among African countries By Makoza, Frank
  1. By: OECD
    Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming tourism, creating new opportunities to enhance visitor experiences, improve business performance, and support sustainable development, while also raising policy challenges. This paper explores the opportunities, risks and policy implications of AI adoption in tourism across APEC economies. It identifies six priority areas to support responsible AI adoption, with particular attention to the sector's SME-dominated structure and the specific characteristics of tourism economies in the Asia-Pacific region. Drawing on emerging practices across APEC economies, it highlights policy approaches to harness the benefits of AI while fostering a more innovative, resilient, and sustainable tourism economy.
    Keywords: apec economies, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, innovation, sustainable tourism, tourism
    JEL: Z38 Z3
    Date: 2026–09–09
    URL: https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:cfeaab:2026/02-en
  2. By: Makoza, Frank
    Abstract: This study explored digital nomads destination competitiveness of South Africa among African countries. The study used Global digital nomads index data and policy documents on tourism and hospitality. The findings showed that South Africa was ranked at position 54 (fourth position of the five African countries listed in the rankings). The country had a higher score for economics (93.28) and quality of life (82.17) compared with other African countries that hosted digital nomads (Seychelles, Namibia, Mauritius and Cabo Verde). The status placed South Africa tourism and hospitality sector at a position to leverage infrastructure and services in attracting more digital nomads. However, there was need to improve other components for procedure, tax optimization and tech and innovation to be more competitive against other African countries. The study highlights areas for further studies and contributes towards literature on digital nomads in the context of South Africa.
    Keywords: Digital nomads, Destination competitiveness, Global digital nomads index, South Africa
    Date: 2026
    URL: https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:esprep:343143
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