In many developing countries there is a scarcity of resources, a lack of expertise, and limited involvement in tourism by the private sector. For these reasons, the government has often had to play a central role. Also, in the initial stages of tourism development, the government might be the only body that has resources to invest in the sector. It may also be the main guarantor for overseas investment. A further factor is that, as tourism has become more important in global economic activity, then not only governments but also a very wide range of international agencies and interest groups are concerned with its future.