The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) is predicting that up to 50 million jobs could be lost globally due to Coronavirus pandemic.
The WTTC says the global coronavirus outbreak means millions of travel and tourism jobs are at risk, particularly.
The Chief Executive of the WTTC, Gloria Guevara, says the outbreak “presents a significant threat to the industry”.
The coronavirus outbreak has resulted in cancellations of thousands of international flights. Also, some insurance firms suspending travel cover for new customers.
Many countries have introduced travel restrictions in an attempt to contain its spread.
Traveling to shrink by 25%
New figures from the WTTC suggest that the travel sector could shrink by up to 25% in 2020.
The trade body is calling on governments to take several steps to protect the industry.
Some of the steps include removing or simplifying visas where possible, as well as reducing costs.
Others also include relaxing “unnecessary barriers” at ports and airports Reduce travellers’ taxes such as Air Passenger Duty as well as Increase budgets for promoting travel destinations
The world to overcome this challenge
However, Ms Guevara added: “Travel and tourism has the strength to overcome this challenge and will emerge stronger.”
Cruise ship firm Princess Cruises is suspending all operations for 60 days. One of its cruises has been kept off the cost of San Francisco for five days after 21 passengers tested positive for the virus.
British Airways, EasyJet and Norwegian Air have all also cut flights in response to the outbreak.
Korean Air even warned that the coronavirus could threaten its survival.
