The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has recently issued a ‘Call to Action’, urging key stakeholders within the European Union to rally behind a sector that currently supports employment for over 22 million individuals and injects €1.4 trillion into the economic circulation of the EU.
Such a call from the authority highlights three essential points for the modernisation and strengthening of the sector, envisioning a future where it can contribute 1.9 trillion euros to the EU economy by 2033.
According to WTTC forecasts, by the year above, the Travel and Tourism sector is poised to reach this groundbreaking milestone, representing a significant tenth of every euro circulating within the EU economy.
The Economic Impact Research (EIR) from WTTC also forecasts that the sector will support the creation of almost four million more new jobs by 2033, to reach 26.4 million– one in eight jobs across the EU.
Through a statement, the WTTC also said that it is pressing the EU to carry out complete policy impact assessments regarding the implementation of legislation affecting the travel and tourism sector.
Stressing the need for harmony between environmental objectives and existing sectoral commitments, the ‘Call to Action’ calls on EU leaders to acknowledge the efforts already undertaken in the field of Travel and Tourism.
The WTTC emphasises the need for future environmental legislation to complement rather than hinder ongoing initiatives. It also advocates easing simple policies that promote smooth and trouble-free travel, thus stimulating growth and encouraging job creation.
A key aspect of this strategy further involves the simplification of visa procedures. The global tourism authority also calls on the EU to insist on pursuing visa-free travel and dismantle existing barriers.
Additionally, the WTTC wants to implement the Entry-Exit System immediately, which has already faced delays, to improve the overall passenger experience.
In this regard, Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, asserts that the Travel and Tourism sector serves as a cornerstone of economic expansion in the EU.
She claims that the measures outlined in its ‘Call to Action’ will protect sustainable growth, attract new talent, and ensure prosperity within the sector.
Moreover, the WTTC’s ‘Call to Action’ highlights the opportunity for the EU Travel and Tourism industry to strengthen its competitive advantage and achieve greater success, provided that the suggested actions are executed swiftly.
