SETE: Quality Over Quantity Key for Future of Greek Tourism

Over-taxation, the complete lift of capital controls and upgrading infrastructure are vital to ensuring a healthy future for Greek tourism, according to Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) President Yiannis Retsos.

Speaking to Greek media SKAI, Retsos, who stepped in as SETE’s head earlier this year, is noting that professionals should not rest on their laurels due to the positive performance of the sector this year.

“It is vital we plan for tourism in the coming years… 28.5 million arrivals (in 2017) may seem like a success story for our economy, but much of our infrastructure is falling behind. We must focus on improving quality not quantity,” Retsos said, adding that instead of counting arrivals “we must discuss ways of converting these into revenue”.

SETE’s chief underlined that “functioning as normal in abnormal conditions is worrying” referring to the implementation of capital controls which he said must be completely lifted immediately.

Retsos went on to stress that over-taxation of the tourism industry will only hamper its competitive edge and intensify tax evasion, adding that SETE has called on the government to implement the announced overnight tax only for the months of July and August instead of all year round.

On a final note, he underlined the need to regulate Airbnb-style rentals in a way that will ensure fair play for all parties involved.