Revenue from tourism in recent years has decreased compared to previous decades when adjusted for inflation, according to data presented to journalists by the Cyprus Tourist Enterprises Association (ACTE).

During the meeting, the Association presented its positions on tourism issues and suggested a strategic plan to address long-term problems.

STEK General Director Chrysemili Psilogeni shared data indicating that when adjusted for inflation, the revenue recorded in 2023 is lower than in 2001, a milestone year for the sector due to the peak contribution of the tourism industry to the local economy.

In 2001, there were 2.7 million tourist arrivals, generating €2 billion in revenue. In 2023, arrivals increased to 3.8 million, with revenue reaching €2.9 billion.

The per capita expenditure of tourists in 2001 was €73 per day. Adjusted for inflation, this expenditure should be €109 today. However, in 2023, the per capita expenditure was only €90.

According to STEK, the average length of stay in 2001 was 10.3 days, whereas in 2023, it dropped to 8.6 days. This 18% decrease in tourists' length of stay is also reflected in their respective expenses.

Psilogeni also highlighted Cyprus's high dependence on specific markets over time. In 2001, over 50% of tourists came from the United Kingdom. In 2019, a record year for arrivals, more than half of the tourists were from the UK and Russia (33%-17%), while in 2023, they were primarily from the UK and Israel (35%-11%).

STEK emphasized the importance of expanding the tourist season into the winter months. According to the data presented, the year-round gross occupancy of 3, 4, and 5-star hotels was 56.6% in 2023, with many hotels closing during the winter.

In summer, hotel occupancy reached 82%, while in winter, it was limited to 17% (data for 2023).