Cyprus supplying 100,000 tourists to north

OEV expects Turkey breakthrough soon

Cyprus is looking towards a 10% increase in summer tourist arrivals, according to CTO Chairman Photis Photiou, but at the same time, the head of the hoteliers association warned that through the government controlled side, some 100,000 tourists are expected to cross into the north.

The CTO chief said that based on bookings received so far, summer tourist arrivals are seen increasing by 10% compared to last year, but he acknowledged that the increase in numbers may not necessarily translate into higher revenue. The rebound is originating from the UK, Germany, Greece and Sweden, while the Russian market is down, due to visa restrictions.

The Chairman of the Hoteliers Association (PASYXE), Haris Loizides, meanwhile warned that during the peak summer period, around 2,000 tourists will be crossing into the north per week, with hotel industry people describing the outflow as highly disturbing.

“This translates to some 100,000 tourists crossing into the north on daily excursions,” said PASYXE Secretary General, adding that nobody has an idea how many are crossing with their cars or through other means.

TURKEY BREAKTHROUGH

The self-declared republic in the north, recognised only by Turkey may receive more tourists flying directly from European and other destinations if Turkey proceeds to sign the customs union protocol agreement with Cyprus, according to industry experts.

The Turkey breakthrough news was reported by the Secretary General of the Employers & Industrialists Federation, Michalis Pilikos, who following high level contact with the Minister of Commerce of Turkey, Kursat Tuzmen, said he expects Turkey to lift its sea and air restrictions on Cyprus and sign the customs union protocol deal very soon.

In a written announcement, OEV said following contact with the Turkish Minister, “it appears that a breakthrough is close.” Pilikos and his Deputy K. Christofides were in Constantinople last week to attend the General Meeting of UMCE.