Greece Tables Tourism Bill Focusing on DMOs and Wellness 

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias tabled a bill in parliament on Tuesday setting out the priorities for the sector which include setting out the terms of operation for destination management and promotion organizations (DMOs) and developing wellness tourism.

The proposed legislation aims to introduce flexible tools, encourage collaborations and synergies, respond to the needs of a sustainable tourism product, and move forward with the development of wellness and spa tourism.

The idea, said Kikilias, is to resolve age old issues, ensure the quality of the Greek tourism product, and strengthen Greece’s international reputation.

According to the ministry, the first part of the bill concerns the operation of destination management and promotion organizations, which will step in to address the development needs of individual destinations countrywide.

The goal, said Kikilias, is for these organizations to enhance the tourism product of each destination based on distinct characteristics and offerings through public-private partnerships (PPPs) and collaborations with local stakeholders.

Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias

Under the given legislation, these entities will be able to enter agreements and synergies with professional associations, companies, private sector bodies, and clusters in order to ensure the quality of the offered tourist product. Additionally, implement such programs through advertising and marketing, financing studies, and cooperation with specialized tourist organizations, tour operators and airlines.

The bill also foresees 50 percent funding by the DMO or relevant local authority for co-advertising and 50 percent by associations, companies or private sector bodies.

Involved parties will also be able to plan and carry out volunteer and social responsibility actions related to sustainable tourism development and the preservation of the environment and to provide incentives for the promotion and management of local quality labels.