The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has urged for action to boost the travel and tourism industry in the European Union (EU). They aim to maximize its potential to contribute €1.9 trillion to the EU economy by 2033.
Currently, the sector is responsible for creating more than 22 million jobs throughout the continent. It plays a crucial role in supporting larger economic objectives.
Forecasted 26.4 million new travel and tourism jobs by 2033
According to a call-to-action from WTTC, they expect the travel industry to create 26.4 million jobs by 2033. This would be an increase of almost 4 million jobs compared to the current number.
This influx would represent one-eighth of all jobs available within the EU.
The WTTC urges policymakers to assess the impact of legislation on tourism operators.
The council is working to make the industry more sustainable, while also considering past environmental commitments.
WTTC President Julia Simpson said that future regulations should “complement, rather than hinder” current efforts to achieve net zero emissions.
Demand for increased ease of travel across borders
To help the tourism sector’s further growth, the WTTC supports the idea of making it easier to travel across borders by simplifying the rules and processes. This would mean “smooth, hassle-free travel” for everyone involved.
Central to this is improving visa protocols across the continent to encourage freedom of movement.
Per the WTTC, the EU should expedite the overdue Entry-Exit System (EES) and break down mobility barriers.
Accelerating digital transformation through targeted policies
The lobbying group suggests that officials should speed up the use of new technologies to lower costs in different industries and create more chances for economic growth.
Proposed policies include enabling contactless travel and supporting AI implementation across tourism operations.
Simpson concluded that adopting the policy suggestions above allows companies to “modernize and unlock the digital transformation of travel.”
She asserted that by working collaboratively with the EU, previously unmatched expansion awaits.
However, pragmatic steps remain vital to achieving these ambitions.
Smoother journeys ahead for visitors under new ETIAS
In mid-2025, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will make it easier for millions of people to enter the EU each year.
The ETIAS serves as a light screening before travel, making it easier for people going on short trips to go through customs and immigration.
This is good news for tourists and digital nomads, as they can expect European tourism to become more vibrant in the coming years.
More welcoming terrain for long-term immigration
As EU countries move toward more open borders, opportunities expand for permanent relocation as well.
As tourism increases and economies grow, families and investors thinking about moving to a new country might find attractive opportunities for resettlement.
However, realizing these ambitions still requires reforming restrictive policies in several member states.
Hence, the WTTC’s push for improved mobility looks set to benefit both temporary visitors and those seeking to migrate long-term.
Unrivaled opportunity ahead for revitalized tourism sector
With the EU travel industry recovering from the pandemic’s battering, a chance exists to build back stronger than ever.
Implementing innovative plans focused on sustainability, transportation, and digital technology lays the groundwork for significant growth. This helps solidify tourism’s role as a key driver of prosperity throughout Europe.