The global travel and tourism industry is on course to become one of the biggest engines of job creation worldwide, expected to support 9.1 crore new jobs over the next decade, according to a new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The report, titled ‘Future of the Travel and Tourism Workforce’, warns that the rapid growth in demand could create a workforce shortfall of more than 4.3 crore people if key demographic and structural challenges remain unaddressed.
Released at the 25th WTTC Global Summit in Rome, the findings highlight both the immense potential and the looming challenges for one of the world’s fastest-growing economic sectors.
A Record-Breaking Year for Global Travel
The report notes that 2024 marked a historic year for travel, as global demand surged beyond pre-pandemic levels. The sector’s GDP contribution grew 8.5%, reaching USD 10.9 trillion — 6% higher than 2019 levels.
Travel providers added 20.7 million new jobs, taking total global employment in the sector to 357 million.
“Travel and tourism is set to remain one of the world’s biggest job creators, offering opportunities for millions of people worldwide,” said Gloria Guevara, WTTC’s Interim CEO.
India Among Top Three Economies Facing Workforce Gaps
The report, which analysed 20 major global economies, warns that by 2035, the demand for workers in the sector will exceed available supply by 4.3 crore people, leaving the labour pool 16% below required levels.
The largest absolute shortfalls are projected in:
Regional Highlights: Europe, Middle East, and Beyond
Europe continues to dominate the global tourism landscape, home to five of the world’s top 10 most powerful travel and tourism markets by GDP. However, the report also highlights the Middle East as a rising powerhouse, with Saudi Arabia leading the charge through record inbound visitor spending and major infrastructure investments.
At the summit, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni underscored the strategic importance of tourism in driving national growth. “Tourism is an extraordinary generator of wealth and well-being,” she said, highlighting Italy’s continued investment in tourism infrastructure.
Other global leaders present included Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè, Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb, and Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg.
A Call for Collaboration and Sustainable Growth
The WTTC report serves as a wake-up call for policymakers to address the looming talent shortage while sustaining the momentum of global travel growth.
Manfredi Lefebvre, newly appointed WTTC Chair and a veteran industry leader, said:
“WTTC has been a cornerstone of our industry, championing resilience and progress. Travel is not just an industry; it is a profound passion that connects people.”
The WTTC, working closely with governments, destinations, and the private sector, aims to foster inclusive and sustainable tourism growth that benefits communities, economies, and the environment.
Understanding the Numbers
Each year, WTTC publishes detailed Economic Impact Research (EIR) reports for 184 countries and 28 regions, helping guide both public and private decision-making. These reports quantify tourism’s role in economic output, job creation, and social well-being — critical insights as the sector continues its rapid recovery and evolution.
The Road Ahead
As global travel demand accelerates, the next decade will define how the tourism industry balances growth with sustainability and workforce readiness. With one in every three new jobs expected to come from travel and tourism, the sector is poised not only to fuel economies but also to reshape the global employment landscape.
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