CYPRUS: Hotels call for digital transformation and innovation in tourism

Cyprus must prioritize digital transformation and innovation, Chairman of the Hotel Association Haris Loizides, said on the occasion of World Tourism Day, celebrated on 27 September.

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He said the tourist industry has throughout the years been the backbone of growth in the Cypriot economy.

Figures show that tourist arrivals from January-August 2018 recorded an 8% increase, following a 14.6% increase during the same period last year.

“In 2018, tourist arrivals exceeded any previous record observed during the first eight months of the year. The very significant area of employment has also enjoyed an increase, demonstrating tourism’s contribution in efforts to reduce unemployment.

While the overall employment in the country increased by 5.5% between 2013 and 2017, job positions in the tourism industry increased by 12.3%.”

Loizides said the tourism industry could not rest on its laurels while it is imperative, especially with the establishment of a Deputy Ministry of Tourism, to continue with greater determination.

"Digital transformation and innovation should be viewed as a priority in a country for which tourism is a basic pillar of growth,” he argued.

“The increasing economic, social and environmental consequences of technology and innovation should be better understood, so that the tourism sector can contribute to viable and sustainable development, as reflected in the United Nations’ goals.”