(CAPITOL CITY NOW) – With Illinois seeing a 55% increase in the number of visitors from India between 2019 and 2023, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has announced they are opening an office in New Delhi to attract even more Indian tourists.

“International visitors are vital to growing our state’s tourism economy because they stay longer and spend more money in the U.S. than the average domestic traveler. We look forward to showcasing Illinois’ unique attractions and vibrant culture to even more Indian travelers,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards.

In 2023, the state had 2.16 million international visitors, which is a 39% increase from the previous year, according to data from Tourism Economics. Sartha Global Marketing LLP will lead efforts in India to encourage more Indian travelers to visit Illinois. The new office will join others in the UK, Germany, and Mexico to support Illinois’ global tourism efforts.