Nicosia, Cyprus. Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis said Cyprus’ tourism sector is showing signs of gradual recovery, while urging caution in interpreting recent declines in visitor arrivals.
Comments after cabinet meeting
Speaking at the presidential palace following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Koumis said tourism figures should be assessed calmly and without drawing premature conclusions. He said the data show a steady and gradual recovery of tourism flows.
Declines in March and April arrivals
His comments came after official data showed that tourist arrivals in April fell by 27.6 per cent year-on-year to 303,031, while arrivals for the first four months of 2026 declined by 17.9 per cent. The drop followed an earlier fall of 30.7 per cent in March, marking a sharp reversal after a strong start to the year prior to the escalation of tensions in the Middle East at the end of February.
Geopolitical factors and year-on-year comparisons
Koumis said the downturn recorded in recent months was expected given geopolitical developments affecting the wider region, adding that similar impacts have been seen in other destinations. He also said comparisons with 2025 should be viewed in context, noting that 2025 was a record year for Cyprus tourism and that comparisons are being made against an extremely high base.
Emphasis on broader trends
Koumis said short-term fluctuations should not overshadow the broader picture of the sector.
How do you think Cyprus’ tourism sector should be assessed amid short-term fluctuations in arrivals?