Abstract:

The main focus of the studies in tourism economy literature focuses on the identification of the relationship between tourism income and export levels, GDP, external trade balance, employment and other macroeconomic variables. Parallel to the trend in the area, the aim of this study is to determine the impact of tourism revenues on economic growth and export levels. The study covering the Balkans countries conducted a Panel Data Analysis for the years 2000-2017.  Research findings show that there is a long-term relationship between tourism income and real GYSİH and export level. The increase in tourism revenues in the Balkans has a long-term positive and statistically significant impact on GDP and export levels. According to the findings, an increase of 1% in total tourism income increases GDP levels by 0.19% in the long term and export levels by 0.37%. The results show that the Balkans should focus on policies that encourage the tourism industry as a potential source of economic growth. In the study; the strengthening of the tourism sector and the development of optimal tourism-oriented investment opportunities for economic growth and development was presented as a priority policy proposal.

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