Addressing the Global Travel & Tourism Workforce Challenge
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has released a landmark report, "Future of the Travel & Tourism Workforce," with a crucial message:
While the sector is poised to create a staggering 91 million new jobs globally by 2035, we face a potential crisis.
The Shortfall:
A Call for Urgent Action
Demographic and structural shifts could leave us with a shortfall of over 43 million workers by 2035, leaving staffing levels 16 per cent below what is required. This gap presents a massive risk to one of the world's fastest-growing sectors.
The hospitality sector faces the sharpest immediate gap, with an 8.6 million worker shortfall, equivalent to 18 per cent of the staff needed.
Low-skilled roles that are critical and difficult to automate will be in highest demand, requiring more than 20 million additional workers worldwide.
In absolute terms, the largest shortages are projected in China (16.9 million) and India (11 million).
Relatively, Japan faces the most acute gap, with a workforce supply forecast to fall 29 per cent short of demand.
Unlocking the Potential
Despite these challenges, travel and tourism remains an unmatched engine for job creation and economic development.
As WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara said, "Travel and tourism is set to remain one of the world's biggest job creators... But we must also recognise that wider demographic and structural changes are reshaping labour markets everywhere."
This report is a clear call to action. By working together—governments, educators, and industry leaders—we can strategically plan and reduce this gap, ensuring we unlock the full potential of our people for generations to come.
How is your organization adapting its workforce planning to attract and retain talent in this dynamic environment?
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