Greek Hoteliers Call for Nationwide Tourism Development to Boost Regional Economies

Photo source: My Thessaly

Greek hoteliers are advocating for a more equitable distribution of tourism across the country’s 13 administrative regions to stimulate local economies.

“While Greece comprises 13 regions, over half of the country’s tourist revenues are generated by just two, with more than 90 percent concentrated in five,” according to Hellenic Hoteliers Federation President Yannis Hatzis.

Speaking during the federation’s 4th regional conference in Larisa, Hatzis highlighted the importance of regional authorities initiating sustainable tourism projects in less-developed areas and fostering entrepreneurship.

“We are proud of these five leading regions, but there are eight others that could incorporate tourism into their economic strategies,” he stressed.

Hellenic Hoteliers Federation President Yannis Hatzis.

Hatzis underlined that well-established destinations must protect their hard-earned reputations, while emerging destinations should be prepared to invest time and resources for growth. He described the path toward regional tourism development as “challenging”, requiring collaboration between stakeholders. Many hoteliers’ associations, he added, have long sought to develop their areas but face resistance from local authorities’ inward-focused approaches.

Tourism is Greece’s only naturally competitive global industry, Hatzis said, reaffirming the federation’s commitment to spreading its benefits nationwide.

Climate resilience fee

Addressing the increase of the climate resilience fee, Hatzis acknowledged hoteliers’ willingness to contribute to a disaster relief fund but called for transparency and proportionality. He proposed that the tourism sector’s contribution should be limited to 5 percent — not 80 percent — of the 800 million euros target, as hoteliers are already investing in climate adaptation through significant capital expenditures.

Hatzis also praised the government’s crisis management efforts but urged for public spending reforms to create room for private sector tax reductions. “Tourism in Greece belongs to all citizens, not just hoteliers, and we must collectively support its growth,” he said.

During the event, the federation’s International Relations Representative, Iordanis Mihailidis, echoed the call for showcasing a diverse profile of Greece.

Also the president of the Association of Hoteliers in Western Macedonia, Mihailidis advocated focusing on less-developed regions, such as mountainous areas and regions impacted by climate change, including Thessaly.