The golf business more than €15 billion to the European economy, according to a new survey commissioned by the Professional Golfers' Association.

The report, which was produced on the PGA's behalf by Sports Marketing Surveys, shows that the game's impact is largest in the UK and Ireland. Across the two countries, the game's economic impact was valued at €6.1 billion, more than 40 per cent of the European total.

Across the 27 nations of the European Union, plus Norway and Switzerland – a total population of 510 million people – golf is responsible for at least 180,000 full time jobs, and total employee wages of €4.4 billion. Even with the impact of the economic downturn, golf tourism is responsible for over €1.5 of economic activity across the continent.

PGA chief executive Sandy Jones commented: “Golf plays a significant role both in its economic impact and also in delivering social, behavioural and sporting benefits with the PGA professional firmly at the centre of the golf industry. In addition golf is also a huge contributor to charitable causes in Europe and last year generated more than €85 million supporting a range of good causes.”