A new study from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts significant growth in the European tourism industry, with major benefits for both employment and economic output. The research outlines how the sector is set to create millions of new jobs and generate billions in economic activity by 2035, offering new opportunities for both travelers and businesses.
Tourism: A Key Contributor to Europe’s Economy
The travel and tourism sector has always been vital to Europe’s economy, and its importance is set to grow. The WTTC predicts that by 2035, tourism will create 4.5 million new jobs across the European Union (EU), bringing the total number of jobs linked to the sector to over 30 million. This means that by then, one in every seven jobs in the EU will be directly or indirectly connected to tourism. This growth will benefit workers and travelers alike, leading to a more resilient industry with new destinations, services, and innovations.
Economic Contribution and Growth
The WTTC also forecasts a significant boost to Europe’s economy. By 2035, the tourism sector is expected to contribute nearly 2.3 trillion euros to the EU’s GDP, accounting for around 11% of the region’s total economic output. This will benefit related industries such as hospitality and transportation, making the market more dynamic and competitive for travelers.
Increased Tax Revenue from Travel Spending
The sector’s expansion will also lead to higher tax revenue for EU governments. The WTTC expects tourism to generate over 900 billion euros in tax income annually by 2035. This financial boost could help improve infrastructure, sustainability, and innovation in Europe’s travel destinations. Travelers can expect better airports, transport systems, and attractions as a result of these investments.
Rising Travel Spending
The growth of the tourism industry will drive increased spending. International visitors are projected to spend 573 billion euros in 2025, marking an 11% year-on-year increase. Domestic spending is also set to rise by 1.6%, reaching 1.1 trillion euros in the same year. For travelers, this means more options for accommodations, experiences, and attractions as businesses respond to rising demand.
A Resilient and Growing Industry
The WTTC’s report highlights the resilience of Europe’s travel sector. Despite challenges like the pandemic and geopolitical issues, tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the EU. In 2024, the sector contributed 1.8 trillion euros to the EU’s GDP, a 6% increase from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Employment in the sector also grew by nearly 5% from the previous year, reaching over 24.5 million jobs. This recovery signals a strong future for the industry, with more options and competitive pricing for travelers.
Global Implications of European Tourism Growth
The growth of Europe’s tourism sector is also significant on the global stage. As one of the world’s top destinations, Europe’s expanding tourism industry will attract even more international travelers. The WTTC forecasts that international visitors will spend 730 billion euros in Europe over the next decade. This growth will create more jobs and economic contributions, benefiting global tourism.
With increased demand, travelers from emerging markets and long-haul destinations will likely flock to Europe. This could lead to more international flights, increased competition among airlines, and greater investment in travel technology and services. For travelers, this means more choices and possibly lower costs as the travel industry becomes more competitive.
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