Tourism is one of Italy's most significant economic sectors and its long-term development potential is important, especially for the southern regions. Tourism is a significant exports driver representing around 40% of the exports of services. The Italian tourism economy is highly internationalised. However, the domestic market is predominant (57% of all nights), especially in the south (75%). While direct tourism spending amounted to 5% of GDP, the direct and indirect impacts were around 10% of GDP in 2009. Employment is also significant; Italy has one of the highest shares of people employed in tourism in Europe. In 2009, international tourism revenues represented EUR 31 billion, and domestic revenues (holidays only) EUR 33 billion. Weaknesses in tourism statistics lead to an underestimation of the tourism economy and make the evaluation of the Italian tourism economy and comparisons with other countries difficult. After an exceptionally challenging year in 2009, international tourism in Italy is strongly recovering in 2010 (+6% for January - July 2010).