The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) unveiled a pivotal report concerning the global travel and tourism workforce on September 30, 2025, held during the 25th WTTC Global Summit in Rome, Italy.

The report indicates that while the travel sector is expected to contribute to one in three new jobs globally by 2035, demographic and structural changes could lead to a shortfall of over 43 million workers if not addressed.

Titled Future of the Travel & Tourism Workforce, this report compiled data from 20 economies through extensive surveys of business leaders and interviews with WTTC Members and other stakeholders. It emphasizes a significant rebound of the sector as a crucial job creation engine, alongside serious structural shifts, including declining working-age populations relative to economic growth, which will further hinder the sector’s ability to meet labor demands.

Current status and projections

In 2024, the industry was responsible for 357 million jobs globally and is anticipated to support 371 million jobs in 2025. Over the next decade, Travel & Tourism is projected to create 91 million new positions, accounting for one-third of all newly generated jobs worldwide.

However, by 2035, there could be a shortage of more than 43 million workers in this sector, resulting in labor availability falling 16% below necessary levels. The hospitality industry alone is likely to experience a deficit of 8.6 million workers, which is about 18% below required staffing levels. Low-skilled roles remain essential, with a projected need for over 20 million additional workers.

While the report reveals that the labor challenge will impact all 20 major economies studied, the largest shortages are expected in China, India, and the European Union. Relatively speaking, Japan’s Travel & Tourism sector could see its workforce supply at 29% below the required level by 2035, followed closely by Greece and Germany.

Continued growth despite challenges

Nonetheless, Travel & Tourism continues to be a dominant job creator in the global economy. Gloria Guevara, the interim CEO of WTTC, stated: “Travel & tourism is set to remain one of the world’s largest job creators, offering opportunities for millions globally. However, demographic and structural changes are also reconfiguring labor markets. Many workers abandoned the sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, and as global employment is predicted to decline and working-age populations decrease, the pressure on labor supply in fast-growing sectors like ours is mounting.”

Guevara termed the report as a decisive call for governments and educational institutions to prepare their citizens to meet the forthcoming industry challenges.

She concluded: “Our sector will face these challenges and remain one of the most fulfilling sectors, providing dynamic futures for upcoming generations. WTTC will collaborate with officials globally to ensure policies are enacted to minimize this labor gap.”

Emulating successful case studies

Saudi Arabian tourism minister Ahmed Al Khateeb highlighted that his nation showcases what vision and investment can accomplish regarding tourism-related workforce dynamics. He remarked: “By 2035, one in three new jobs will come from Travel & Tourism; no other sector can claim that. Saudi Arabia exemplifies how vision and investment lead to success, with over 649,000 training positions and a workforce comprised of nearly 50% women.”

Coraggio Group managing partner Sara Meaney added: “This report presents us with more than just figures; it challenges us to rethink our strategies for attracting, developing, and retaining talent in an ever-evolving landscape. We must invest purposeful efforts to cultivate jobs that inspire, develop careers that adapt, and create workplaces that echo the values of today’s workforce.”

Strategies for a future-ready workforce

The report suggests methods for the industry, governments, and educators to transform challenges into opportunities, including:

• Spotlighting the diversity and excitement of career paths in Travel & Tourism.
• Enhancing cooperation between educators and industry to align training with employer requirements and providing students with hands-on experiences.
• Strengthening retention through leadership development initiatives and promoting diversity in workplace cultures.
• Investing in technology and sustainable practices to prepare for future demands and enhance productivity.
• Implementing flexible policies to address varying workforce needs, such as reducing barriers for international recruitment and combining part-time roles.

Addressing the workforce challenge will necessitate close collaboration among governments, stakeholders, and education providers. With strategic foresight and investment, Travel & Tourism can continue to foster prosperity, innovation, and opportunities for communities globally.