Travel, tourism to support 9 crore new jobs by 2035: WTTC
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Mumbai (PTI): The international travel and tourism sector will support 9.1 crore new jobs in the next 10 years, accounting for one in every three jobs created globally, according to a report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
Demographic and structural shifts could create a workforce shortfall of more than 4.3 crore people if left unaddressed, says the report, ‘Future of the Travel and Tourism Workforce’, which focused on 20 economies.
The Council works with governments on issues of the travel and tourism industry, and is the global authority on the economic and social contribution of the sector.
The report, released at the 25th WTTC Global Summit in Rome recently, is based on extensive global research, including a large-scale survey of business leaders and in-depth interviews with the tourism body’s members and other key stakeholders, a release said.
“In 2024, demand for travel and tourism was stronger than it has ever been. The sector’s GDP contribution grew 8.5 per cent to reach USD 10.9 trillion, surpassing 2019 levels by 6 per cent. Travel providers created 20.7 million new jobs, bringing the total to 357 million worldwide,” the report said.
Over the next decade, the sector is projected to generate 9.1 crore new roles, accounting for one in every three net new jobs created globally, the report said.
By 2035, global demand for workers in travel and tourism will outpace supply by more than 4.3 crore people, leaving labour availability 16 per cent below required levels, it said.
The report said labour challenges will affect all the 20 major economies analysed, with the largest absolute shortfalls forecast in China (1.69 crore), India (1.1 crore), and the European Union (64 lakh).
Europe remains at the forefront of international tourism, with five of the world’s top 10 most powerful travel and tourism markets by GDP, it said.
The Middle East remains one of the fastest-growing regions in the sector, with Saudi Arabia continuing to stand out, with inbound visitor spend surging and infrastructure investment reaching record levels, the report said.
In her keynote at the summit opening ceremony, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted her government’s investment in tourism infrastructure and her conviction that the sector is “an extraordinary generator of wealth and well-being.”
Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè, Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb and Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg were present.
Gloria Guevara, WTTC Interim CEO, said “Travel and tourism is set to remain one of the world’s biggest job creators, offering opportunities for millions of people worldwide.”
At the summit, Manfredi Lefebvre, a global leader in travel and tourism, was named as the new WTTC chair, succeeding Greg O’Hara, who led the organisation since November 2023.
“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,” Lefebvre said.
The summit was hosted in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Tourism, ENIT (the Italian national tourist board), the Municipality of Rome, and the Lazio Region.
Every year, WTTC produces reports on the economic and employment impact of travel and tourism for 184 countries/economies and 28 geographic or economic regions in the world.
The Economic Impact Research reports are a vital tool in helping equip public and private sector bodies understand the significant value travel and tourism brings to the economy, and ensure that policymaking and investment decisions support the sector.
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.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
