What's Happening?
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has released a report projecting that the travel and tourism sector will support one in three new jobs globally by 2035. Despite this growth potential, the report highlights a significant workforce challenge, predicting a shortfall of over 43 million positions if current trends continue. The sector, which supported a record 357 million jobs in 2024, is expected to support 371 million jobs in 2025. However, demographic shifts, the impact of the pandemic, and global demand are contributing to a potential 16% shortfall in required roles by 2035. The report identifies recruiting and retaining talent, along with technological and sustainable practices, as major challenges for the industry.
Why It's Important?
The projected workforce shortfall in the travel and tourism sector could have significant implications for global economies, particularly in countries heavily reliant on tourism. The inability to fill these roles may hinder the sector's growth and its capacity to contribute to economic recovery post-pandemic. The report underscores the need for strategic workforce planning, including better alignment of education and industry, adoption of digital and AI technologies, and sustainable practices. Addressing these challenges is crucial for maintaining the sector's role as a major job creator and for ensuring its long-term sustainability and resilience.
What's Next?
The WTTC report suggests several strategies to address the workforce challenges, including showcasing diverse career opportunities, aligning education with industry needs, and creating leadership pathways. The adoption of digital and AI technologies, along with sustainable practices, is also recommended. These measures aim to attract and retain talent, ensuring the sector can meet future demands. Collaboration between governments, educators, and industry stakeholders will be essential to implement these strategies effectively and to secure the sector's future as a key driver of global employment.
