PM: Greek Tourism Exceeded 2024 Goals, Positive Prospects for 2025

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Crete Governor Stavros Arnaoutakis. Photo source: Prime Minister’s press office

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday said that Greece surpassed its tourism targets for 2024 and highlighted optimistic indicators for the sector in 2025.

While visiting the island of Crete, the Prime Minister met with hoteliers in the city of Rethymnon.

“The broader picture is directly related to the fact that, even in challenging times, Greece remains a pillar of geopolitical, political, economic, and social stability,” said Mitsotakis. “This is a fundamental prerequisite for fostering any economic activity, especially to welcome millions of visitors to a beautiful and safe destination.”

The Greek PM emphasized that the success of the tourism sector was due to the efforts of those working within it. “In a year full of challenges for global markets, we exceeded the goals we set,” he said, adding that the prospects for 2025 are exceptionally positive.

“Greece continues to outshine its main competitors in the marketplace, thanks to the hard work and collaboration of everyone in the tourism sector.”

He also stressed that the Greek government has a clear tourism strategy, which includes extending the tourist season and adding new destinations to Greece’s tourism map.

Photo source: Prime Minister’s press office

Regarding infrastructure, Mitsotakis acknowledged that Crete had been underdeveloped in terms of major projects but noted that significant improvements are underway.

“The new airport at Kasteli will be ready by 2027, and we are working tirelessly to secure the northern motorway of the island,” he said.

The Prime Minister called on the people of Crete to remain key players in the agricultural sector, emphasizing the importance of primary production for the island’s economy.

Mitsotakis also reiterated that the government maintains open and direct communication with all tourism stakeholders. He added that the primary goal is to encourage the younger generation to pursue careers in the tourism industry.

“We must work together to show young people that this profession can be both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling,” he highlighted.

Infrastructure Minister Christos Staikouras with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Photo source: Prime Minister’s press office

During his visit to Rethymnon, Mitsotakis participated in the “National Strategy for Regional and Local Development: We Discuss, We Decide, We Move Forward, Together for Rethymnon” conference. He was accompanied by several ministers, deputy ministers, and government officials.

Additionally, Mitsotakis visited the fishing vessel refuge near Rethymnon, which is set to be completed by the end of 2025. Once finished, it will accommodate 70 large fishing boats.

“The sea is a vital resource, and our priority is to provide our fishermen with the best infrastructure to ensure their safety and success,” he noted.

The prime minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to combat tax evasion, which has contributed to increased tax revenues.

“Part of these additional revenues has been allocated to regional budgets. Our economy is performing better than expected, and these extra funds are being invested in projects that leave a lasting social impact,” Mitsotakis concluded.