NEW YORK CITY TOURISM + CONVENTIONS HONORED WITH PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR EXPORT SERVICE ACHIEVEMENTS

New York City Recognized as Key Driver of the Nation’s International Tourism Economy  

President’s “E” Award for Export Achievements Recognizes Contributions to Increasing U.S. Exports and Foreign Currency Earnings 

New York City (May 17, 2024) — New York City Tourism + Conventions, the official destination marketing organization and convention and visitors bureau for the five boroughs of New York City, was awarded the President's “E” Award for Export Service—for assisting and facilitating export activities by increasing the nation’s international earnings through travel—during a ceremony at the U.S. Department of Commerce Headquarters in Washington, D.C. on May 14. 

 The President’s “E” Award is the highest recognition a U.S. entity can receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports in overseas markets. International tourism is a critical export service for the U.S. economy, historically accounting for $233.5 billion per year in spending—more than any other country. New York City—the number one port of entry for overseas travelers to the U.S—has been recognized with this prestigious award for its significant contribution to expanding the nation’s tourism dollars.  

New York City Tourism + Conventions was nominated for its development of training programs to create certification for destination travel specialists as well as innovative marketing programs resulting in quantifiable increases in tourism, contributing to national export expansion efforts that support the U.S. economy and create American jobs.  

“It is an honor for New York City Tourism + Conventions to receive the President’s “E” Award,” said New York City Tourism + Conventions President and CEO Fred Dixon. “New York City remains the number one port of entry for international travelers, who account for 20% of visitation and 50% of spending across New York City’s $74 billion tourism economy. This award is a testament to the power of travel and the role it can play as economic driver for communities everywhere.” 

“Trade impacts the lives of every American worker, business and community,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “I am proud to recognize this year’s President’s “E” and “E Star” award recipients for their efforts and contributions to increase economic prosperity across our country and further position the U.S. private sector as the partner of choice in markets around the globe.” 

New York City remains the largest port of entry into the U.S., and home to the busiest airport system in the world across LGA, JFK and EWR airports. In 2023, tourism to NYC generated an estimated $74 billion in economic impact with more than $48 billion in direct spending. This activity supported over 380,000 leisure and hospitality jobs—roughly 9% of the City’s workforce—and thousands of small and minority-owned businesses across all five boroughs. In 2023, NYC welcomed 62.2 million visitors—50.6 million domestic and 11.6 million international. In 2024, visitation is expected to grow to 64.8 million, a 97% recovery of 2019 record levels.  

About New York City Tourism + Conventions 
New York City Tourism + Conventions is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) and convention and visitors bureau (CVB) for the five boroughs of New York City. Our mission is to invite the world and energize the City, building equitable, sustainable economic prosperity and community through tourism for the mutual benefit of residents, businesses and visitors. For all there is to do and see in New York City, visit nyctourism.com.