AI and tech to drive global job market transformation: WEF
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — The World Economic Forum (WEF)’s latest Future of Jobs Report 2025 reveals a transformation in the global employment landscape, projecting a net increase of 78 million jobs by 2030. This growth is driven by the creation of 170 million new jobs and the elimination of 92 million existing roles.
Emerging tech roles lead employment growth
Big data specialists, FinTech engineers, and AI specialists are among the fastest-growing occupations, while traditional roles like postal service clerks and bank tellers face decline.
“Trends such as generative AI and rapid technological shifts are upending industries and labour markets, creating both unprecedented opportunities and profound risks,” said Till Leopold, Head of Work, Wages and Job Creation at the WEF.
“The time is now for businesses and governments to work together, invest in skills and build an equitable and resilient global workforce.”
The Future of Jobs Report 2025 is now live. Drawing on insights from over 1,000 of the world’s largest employers, the report dives into the key areas of disruption and opportunity within the #labour market. pic.twitter.com/BNd2QLT7bJ
— World Economic Forum (@wef) January 8, 2025
Critical skills gap threatens business innovation
The survey of more than 1,000 companies worldwide in 22 industries and 55 economies identifies the skills gap as the primary obstacle to business transformation, with 63% of employers citing it as their main concern.
By 2030, employers expect 39% of workers’ core skills to undergo significant changes.
Analytical thinking leads the list of essential core skills, mentioned by 69% of respondents, followed by resilience, flexibility, and agility at 67%.
The impact varies by region, with Egypt anticipating the highest skills disruption at 48%, while Denmark expects the lowest at 28%.
The agricultural sector, delivery services, and software development are projected to experience substantial growth. However, roles such as cashiers, administrative assistants, and building caretakers will see significant declines.
The comprehensive study, conducted between May and September 2024, gathered insights from chief executives and senior officers of leading global employers, representing 14.1 million employees worldwide.
The findings underscore the urgent need for collaboration between businesses and governments to prepare the workforce for future challenges.
