Adapting to Climate Change: A New Priority for Cyprus Tourism
In a recent address at the Pancyprian Association of Hotel Managers (Pasydixe) AGM in Larnaca, Christos Angelides, the association’s president, highlighted the multifaceted challenges facing the tourism industry. Angelides emphasized that the sector cannot solely rely on past experiences for strategic planning, especially in the wake of the pandemic’s lasting impacts and the ever-present threat of geopolitical upheavals.
Angelides pointed out that the tourism landscape has dramatically changed, citing the bankruptcy of 46 airlines since 2019 and the shutdown of numerous travel agencies and tour operators. With climate change now intensifying its grip, he urged for a proactive and inventive response. “We are experiencing its effects more intensely than ever and it is time to confront it,” Angelides stated, calling for a multi-level approach that aligns with European Union and Cypriot decisions, while also being targeted and flexible within the tourism industry itself.
The association is seeking state support for hotel industry executives through high-standard training and education programs. Angelides stressed the need for political backing of hotel businesses, advocating for tax incentives to encourage new developments and the technological enhancement of existing facilities. He reiterated the call for establishing a National Institute for Tourism Studies.
Kostas Koumis, Deputy Minister of Tourism, also addressed the current adversities faced by Cypriot tourism, including geopolitical tensions and economic difficulties in key European markets. Despite these challenges, Koumis expressed confidence in overcoming these obstacles through methodical efforts. He underscored the government’s commitment to the green transition and digital transformation, aiming to enhance Cyprus’s tourism product and capitalize on the Recovery and Resilience Plan.
Koumis highlighted the importance of education in improving service quality and referenced the European Commission’s advice on “skilling – upskilling and reskilling.” He noted that human capital is crucial for achieving a competitive edge. The Deputy Ministry of Tourism’s primary goal, according to Koumis, is to bolster the competitiveness of Cyprus’s tourism offerings, with a strong focus on green initiatives, digital advancements, and infrastructure improvements.
