Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus has scope to develop industrial tourism despite lacking heavy industry, experts said at an international conference in Nicosia. They identified food and drink production, winemaking, cosmetics and agriculture as sectors that could provide visitors with more authentic experiences.
Conference focus
The conference, titled ‘Industrial Tourism Conference – Enhancing Visitor Experiences and Promoting Local Businesses’, was organised by the Nicosia Regional Tourism Board (Etap) on June 11 at CYENS. It was held as part of the European IndusTour project under Interreg Europe.
International participation
According to Etap, the event brought together representatives of organisations, researchers, tourism professionals and stakeholders from Cyprus, France, the Czech Republic, Poland, Serbia and Denmark. Discussions focused on how industrial tourism can support sustainable development, diversify local economies and strengthen small businesses.
Visitor experience and local identity
Participants said industrial tourism can extend beyond traditional sightseeing by opening production spaces to the public and allowing visitors to see how local products are made. They said wineries, farms, food producers and other businesses can become destinations in their own right, offering experiences that are more direct, memorable and closely linked to local identity.
Economic and regional benefits
The conference heard that industrial tourism can help businesses become more outward-looking while creating new opportunities for regional development, education and cultural storytelling. Speakers said Cyprus’ lack of a heavy industrial background should not be viewed as a disadvantage.
Priority sectors and cooperation
Speakers pointed to the island’s strong local production base, particularly in wine, gastronomy, cosmetics and agriculture, as areas that could be developed into visitor experiences with the right planning and cooperation. Participants also said closer cooperation between authorities, businesses and tourism bodies will be needed to create a more structured industrial tourism offering in Cyprus.
Role of education and technology
Education, culture and digital technologies were also described as important to the effort, particularly in creating more innovative and engaging experiences for visitors.
