The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) presented a landmark report in Rome, which warns that, although the sector will continue to be an engine for global employment, by 2035 it risks facing a shortfall of more than 43 million workers, if there are no immediate interventions.
The study entitled Future of the Travel & Tourism Workforce, which was prepared with the support of the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, universities and specialized partners, was based on surveys, interviews and analysis of 20 leading economies.
Rapid Growth – Serious Shortages
In 2024, the industry supported 357 million jobs worldwide, a record number that is expected to reach 371 million this year. Over the next decade, 91 million new positions are expected to be created, or one in three new jobs worldwide.
However, growing demand will far outstrip supply: by 2035, the gap will exceed 43 million workers, leaving the workforce about 16% below market needs.
Hospitality is expected to have the largest gap with 8.6 million fewer workers than required, while low-skilled jobs – which remain critical and are not easily automated – will need more than 20 million new workers.
The most affected markets
The shortage of personnel will affect all the countries examined, with the largest shortages predicted:
- in China (16.9 million),
- in India (11 million),
- in the EU (6.4 million).
- Proportionally, Japan will see a deficit of up to 29% of the workforce,
- Greece 27% and
- Germany 26%.
Suggestions for a “future-ready” workforce
The report presents specific strategies to address the problem:
Attracting young people with an emphasis on career prospects in tourism.
Connecting education and the market with practical training and experience programs.
Enhancing staff retention through leadership programs, internal promotions and
inclusive policies.
Investing in digital skills, artificial intelligence and sustainable practices.
Implementing flexible employment models and reducing barriers to international worker mobility.
Working together for the future
WTTC stresses that addressing the crisis requires close collaboration between governments, businesses and education institutions. With proper planning, tourism can continue to be a global force for prosperity, innovation and opportunity.
The report was launched as part of the 25th WTTC World Summit, hosted in Rome with the participation of the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT and local authorities.
