EU Commissioner Tzitzikostas Announces Comprehensive Tourism Strategy for Europe

Photo source: Central Macedonia Region

A new, comprehensive European tourism strategy designed to address mounting competition and significant challenges will soon be unveiled, according to EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

Speaking at the 39th Philoxenia tourism expo in Thessaloniki, Greece’s commissioner to the EU, Tzitzikostas, outlined his vision for the growth of European and Greek tourism.

“We all know the importance of tourism for the Greek and European economy,” said Tzitzikostas, who also serves as the Regional Governor of Central Macedonia, addressing an audience of tourism professionals.

Highlighting the sector’s contribution, he noted that tourism in Europe supports over 20 million jobs and encompasses 3.5 million businesses, 99 percent of which are small, medium, and family-run enterprises.

“For the first time in history, the EU has established a dedicated tourism portfolio, which I am honored to lead as Commissioner. This institutional recognition underscores the significance of the sector,” he added.

Goals for European tourism

EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism and Regional Governor of Central Macedonia, Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

During his speech, Tzitzikostas emphasized his primary objective: ensuring Europe retains its position as the world’s top tourism destination by creating a sustainable tourism model.

“This goal benefits Europe, our country, industry businesses, and the broader economy,” he said, adding that development, innovation, and adaptation, is required to achieve the goal.

Tzitzikostas revealed that his upcoming strategy will address key challenges, including:

– Climate Change and Sustainability: Developing tourism models that minimize environmental impact.
– Digital Innovation: Leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and visitor experiences.
– Balanced Tourist Flows: Ensuring equitable distribution of visitors across destinations.
– Diversification of Destinations: Promoting lesser-known locations to alleviate pressure on popular spots.

Tzitzikostas also stressed the importance of extending Greece’s tourism season year-round, sharing benefits with more local communities, and investing in infrastructure to support increased visitor numbers while preserving natural resources.

Local government’s role in tourism

Photo source: Central Macedonia Region

With extensive experience in regional governance, Tzitzikostas called for regional and municipal authorities to evolve into results-driven destination management organizations.

“Tourism must adapt to new realities, and local governments are crucial in this transformation,” he said.

The Commissioner concluded by assuring attendees of his commitment to the sector’s development.

“Together, we will achieve more… Collaboration is the key to progress,” he said.

Philoxenia Expo

Photo source: Central Macedonia Region

The 39th Philoxenia, Greece’s largest tourism fair, opened on Thursday with an increase in both exhibition space for foreign exhibitors and direct foreign participation. The exhibition’s focus this year is the intersection of culture and tourism, a strategic emphasis for Greece.

“We can and must highlight the decisive contribution of culture to the development of tourism,” said EU Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas. “It is a self-evident and effective strategic choice, one that we in Greece and the Region of Central Macedonia understand, implement, and deeply believe in.”

Reflecting on the industry’s resilience, Tzitzikostas commended stakeholders for overcoming recent crises and achieving record growth.

He ended his speech with a personal pledge: “As your Commissioner, I will bring the same passion and dedication I have always shown as Governor. Together, we will succeed.”

The Philoxenia expo will wrap up on Saturday, November 16.

The Greek Travel Pages (GTP)  is a media sponsor of the Philoxenia 2024 exhibition.