Koumis urges calm assessment of tourism data
Cyprus tourism recovery is showing stable and gradual progress, Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis said on Tuesday, stressing that tourism figures should be assessed calmly and without rushed conclusions.
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Palace, Koumis said it was “completely expected” that recent geopolitical developments would affect tourism flows, noting that other destinations have also faced similar impacts.
Comparisons with record year
The Deputy Minister said comparisons with the previous year are understandable, but reminded that 2025 was a record year for Cypriot tourism.
He pointed out that current performance is being measured against an exceptionally high benchmark.
“What matters is not a single snapshot in time, but the overall picture,” Koumis said.
Flights and tourism activity continue normally
According to Koumis, flight schedules continue normally and the tourism season remains fully underway.
He added that available data indicate a stable and gradual recovery in tourism flows.
The Tourism Ministry is also monitoring developments closely in cooperation with stakeholders across the tourism industry, aiming to strengthen Cyprus’ position as a quality, safe and reliable destination.
Tourism sector shows resilience
Koumis acknowledged the challenges facing the sector but said current figures do not justify excessive pessimism.
“Cypriot tourism has demonstrated resilience, adaptability and a strong international position,” he noted.
He also said that 2026 had begun under highly positive conditions, with January and February recording some of the strongest tourism performances in the country’s history before regional tensions escalated.
Measures taken to support tourism
Responding to questions about attracting tourists, Koumis said the Tourism Ministry has monitored Middle East developments closely since tensions intensified on 1 March.
He explained that authorities acted early to maintain strong air connectivity and reinforce cooperation with Cyprus’ strategic partners.
The Ministry also intensified international promotional campaigns to support the tourism economy throughout the year.
Geopolitical tensions remain a challenge
Koumis said Cyprus welcomes visitors from more than 40 countries, but acknowledged that wider instability in the Middle East creates challenges for attracting long-haul travellers.
Despite this, he said the Ministry remains cautiously optimistic about the sector stabilising as the year progresses.
He also confirmed that some markets have recorded declines in arrivals, describing this as partly expected after three consecutive years of exceptionally strong tourism growth.
Also read: Tourist arrivals fall 28% in April as war impact grows
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