Economy category powered by

Tourism performance is positive but there must be no complacency, Deputy Minister says

The tourist sector’s positive performance in the last two years is not a reason for complacency, Kostas Koumis Deputy Minister for Tourism said, addressing an event hosted by the Deputy Ministry to mark the World Tourist Day.

"We need to redefine the role of tourism for the economy, entrepreneurship, the environment and the society,” he said, speaking at the event in Eleftheria Square on 27 September.

According to Koumis, the most significant challenge which acts as an existing threat for the society as a whole, the economy and tourism is climate change.

“And for this reason, the Deputy Ministry has incorporated a special chapter on green transition in the updated National Strategy for Tourism,” he added.

Referring to the performance of the sector this year, Koumis said that data show that in the period from January to August arrivals increased by 4.1%, compared to the respective period last year, while they are marginally increased compared with the same period of 2019, which was Cyprus’ historic record year in terms of tourist arrivals. Furthermore, he added that revenue from tourism in the first six months of the year were up by 4.2% year on year, despite the fact that 2024 is marked by many adversities.

However, Koumis pointed out that the course of tourism is not secure, as a series of challenges, with the greatest stemming from climate change, call for the need to take immediate measures.

“Each destination’s competitiveness is directly attached with the implementation of sustained and environmentally responsible policies, and this is a one-way street if we want our country’s tourist sector to be competitive,” the Deputy Ministry said.

(Source: CNA/PIO)

Read More

Coordinated effort to boost primary sector's GDP contribution, President says
Two bills to tackle undeclared work, Labour Minister tells Youth Parliament
We aim to strengthen wage adequacy to address rising costs, says Labour Ministry
A spotlight on the role of the Financial Commissioner’s Office
Progress on health sector under Recovery/Resilience Plan to be presented next week
Agriculture Minister announces €109.3 million strategy for primary sector
Zero VAT on products to benefit vulnerable groups and young couples, MinFin says
Cyprus seeking a state-owned entity with expertise to take part in GSI, Minister says
Trade deficit declines an annual 18.5% in January-August
Cyprus has largest share of petrol use in road transport in EU, Eurostat says