Global tourism is poised to become the engine room of job creation over the next decade, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projecting 9.1 crore new roles worldwide by 2035. The forecast highlights the sector’s rising economic significance, but also warns of looming workforce shortages that could unsettle growth.
Released during the 25th WTTC Global Summit in Rome, the report titled Future of the Travel and Tourism Workforce highlights both the promise and the pressures facing the industry. While travel and tourism is expected to account for one in every three new jobs generated globally, labour availability may fall short by 4.3 crore workers, creating a 16 per cent gap between demand and supply.
Labour shortfalls are likely to hit major economies hardest. China is forecast to face the steepest deficit of 1.69 crore, followed by India with 1.1 crore and the European Union with 64 lakh. All 20 economies under review are expected to experience some form of workforce pressure.
WTTC interim chief executive Gloria Guevara said, “Travel and tourism is set to remain one of the world’s biggest job creators, offering opportunities for millions of people worldwide.”
The report attributes the sector’s strong trajectory to post-pandemic recovery, demographic changes and surging international demand. In 2024, the industry’s GDP contribution grew by 8.5 per cent to reach USD 10.9 trillion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 6 per cent. The year also saw the creation of 20.7 million jobs, raising the total to 357 million.
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Europe remains the strongest tourism hub by GDP, hosting five of the world’s 10 most powerful markets. The Middle East continues its rapid expansion, with Saudi Arabia standing out for record infrastructure investment and surging inbound visitor spending.
At the opening ceremony, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described tourism as “an extraordinary generator of wealth and well-being” and reaffirmed her government’s commitment to upgrading infrastructure. Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè, Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb and Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg also addressed the gathering.
Manfredi Lefebvre was named the new WTTC chair at the summit, succeeding Greg O’Hara. Accepting the role, Lefebvre 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.”
Each year, WTTC publishes detailed impact studies for 184 countries and 28 regions. The Council argues that its data and analysis are vital for governments and businesses to design policies that support long-term sustainable growth.
“The Council aims to maximise the inclusive and sustainable growth potential of the travel and tourism sector by partnering with governments, destinations, communities, and other stakeholders to drive economic development,” the report stated.
The summit was hosted in collaboration with Italy’s Ministry of Tourism, ENIT – the national tourist board, the Municipality of Rome and the Lazio Region.
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