The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) has launched a new platform showcasing the wellness economies of different countries from around the world. 

The Geography of Wellness resource provides a clear picture of each country’s wellness economy and its position within the global wellness market. It also provides a space where countries can showcase their wellness assets. 

“Every destination has something unique to offer when it comes to wellness – both for locals and tourists alike,” said GWI chair and CEO Susie Ellis. 

“Forward-looking countries and regions are realising that there is no better time than now to start planting the seeds to grow the positive impact wellness will have on its citizens, community and economy in the years to come.”

According to the GWI’s 2021 research report, The Global Wellness Economy: Looking Beyond Covid, the global wellness economy, currently estimated to be worth $4.4 trillion, is set to almost double in the next three years, reaching $7 trillion by 2025. 

“Wellness is on a huge upwards trajectory and GWI’s rich country and regional data is a key tool for helping investors, business leaders and government agencies crystalise the significant wellness marketing opportunities ahead,” Ellis continued. 

Country focus: Wellness in Singapore 

Singapore is the first country to work with the platform, with the country serving as an exclusive Country Partner with the support of the Singapore Tourism Board.  

According to the GWI’s research, Singapore’s wellness economy is ranked #14 out of the 45 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, which is one of the fastest-growing wellness markets, rising by 8.1% between 2017 and 2019. It also reported the least loss during the pandemic, shrinking by just 6.4% in 2020.

The new Geography of Wellness site also highlights the country’s standings in the GWI’s 11 wellness sectors: Wellness Tourism; Personal Care & Beauty; Spa Economy; Thermal/Mineral Springs; Traditional & Complementary Medicine; Public Health and Preventative & Personalised Medicine; Physical Activity; Healthy Eating, Nutrition & Weightloss; Workplace Wellness and Wellness Real Estate. 

In 2020, Singapore ranked among the top 30 in the world for several of the categories, taking #19 for Wellness Real Estate, #29 for Public Health and Preventative & Personalised Medicine and #30 for Traditional & Complementary Medicine. 

“The wellness economy data that GWI provides is important as it will help us identify opportunities to grow Singapore’s appeal in the wellness tourism space,” said Ong Ling Lee, executive director of Sports & Wellness, Singapore Tourism Board. 

“As a country in nature, where rest and rejuvenation are just a heartbeat away, we believe Singapore is well-positioned to be a leading urban wellness haven. Our accessible and innovative wellness offerings set us apart from other destinations,” she added.

As well as showcasing country-specific economic data, the partnership includes a dedicated Singapore Wellness Economy Report, which offers a detailed look at the country’s position across all 11 wellness sectors and in the wider wellness market. 

The GWI is also working on additional country reports to be released over the coming months.