The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has issued a promising outlook for the European Union's tourism sector, predicting the creation of nearly 4 million new jobs by the year 2033. This optimistic forecast is part of the WTTC's 'Call to Action', which seeks to rally support from EU stakeholders for a sector that currently employs over 22 million people and contributes a staggering €1.4 trillion to the EU economy.

According to the WTTC's Economic Impact Research (EIR), the travel and tourism sector is on track to expand its workforce to 26.4 million people, which would account for one in every eight jobs across the EU. This growth is anticipated to elevate the sector's contribution to the EU economy to €1.9 trillion by 2033, making it equivalent to one in ten euros of the EU's total economic output.

The 'Call to Action' outlines three critical areas for modernizing and enhancing the sector: transitioning to a green and sustainable future, streamlining travel processes, and embracing digital transformation. These initiatives aim to ensure that the sector not only grows but does so in a way that is sustainable, efficient, and in line with the latest technological advancements.

To achieve these goals, the WTTC is urging the EU to conduct policy impact assessments for new legislation affecting the sector, to ensure that environmental laws complement the industry's efforts to reach net-zero emissions. The council is also advocating for simplified visa processes and the rollout of the Entry-Exit System to facilitate smoother travel experiences for visitors.

Furthermore, the WTTC emphasizes the importance of digitalization in the sector, calling for the EU to accelerate the adoption of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and digital passports. These advancements are expected to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and open new opportunities for economic growth and development.

Julia Simpson, President & CEO of the WTTC, highlighted the significance of the sector as a key driver of economic growth in the EU. She stressed the importance of adopting the recommendations laid out in the 'Call to Action' to ensure the sector's sustainable growth, the attraction of new talent, and overall prosperity.

"The Travel & Tourism sector is pivotal for the EU's economic landscape, and with our Call to Action, we envision a future where the sector not only grows but thrives sustainably," said Simpson. "By modernizing and unlocking the digital transformation of travel, we can achieve unprecedented growth and success together with the European Union."

As the WTTC rallies support for these initiatives, the future of the EU's travel and tourism sector looks bright, with the promise of job creation, economic growth, and a sustainable, technology-driven approach to travel.