Despite challenges, tourism sector shows resilience, Deputy Minister says
08:00 - 18 April 2024
Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis has expressed satisfaction over a 9.8% rise in tourist arrivals in March, according to figures released by CySTAT.
"In the face of challenges, our country's tourism sector demonstrates resilience," Koumis noted in a written statement on 17 April. He added that the Deputy Ministry closely monitors every development that directly or indirectly impacts the tourism sector and consistently seeks solutions.
Koumis pointed out that Cyprus' tourism industry has recently navigated through prolonged challenges, including geopolitical instability in the Eastern Mediterranean, economic uncertainties in Central and Western European markets, and adverse conditions in the aviation sector.
"We remain optimistic that we will achieve our target for performance comparable to last year," he said.
He added that among the priorities for 2024 is the continuous improvement of Cyprus' tourism product, a goal reflected in incentive plans announced during the recent months, with a view to enhance the destination's appeal but also to further strengthen the resilience of tourism businesses.
Data released by the Statistical Service on 17 April revealed a 9.8% increase in tourist arrivals in March 2024, totaling 202,256 compared to 184,263 in March 2023. For the period of January to March 2024, arrivals reached 415,251, up from 393,893 during the same period in 2023, marking a 5.4% increase.
The United Kingdom (64,414), Poland (21,054), and Germany (19,732) were the leading sources of tourist arrivals in March.
(Source: CNA)