Nicosia, Cyprus. The association of Cyprus tourist enterprises (Stek) and the hoteliers’ association (Pasyxe) on Thursday opposed a proposed law on recreational areas, warning it could distort the market and harm the tourist experience in Cyprus.
Concerns raised over licensing framework
The two associations said the proposal, discussed earlier this week by the House tourism committee, would not improve or upgrade the tourism product and instead risked undermining it.
In a joint statement, Stek and Pasyxe said the bill introduces what they described as an unnecessary and fragmented licensing framework, including a requirement for an additional operating licence for restaurants within hotel units, even though these are already covered by the existing institutional framework.
They said this could create overlapping responsibilities and lead to deregulation rather than rationalisation.
Warnings about horizontal rules and noise impacts
Stek and Pasyxe said the proposal fails to take into account the nature and specific characteristics of different types of premises, while imposing horizontal regulations on operating hours without safeguards to prevent nuisance and noise pollution.
They said that, if adopted, the provisions could degrade the visitor experience and weigh on Cyprus’ image as a destination, particularly in areas where noise pressures and an overconcentration of activities are already being recorded.
Call for integrated approach and delay
“Cyprus tourism cannot be based on rough and fragmented regulations,” the associations said, adding that what is needed is “an integrated and coherent approach” that promotes quality, balanced development and an upgraded tourism product.
They said such an approach should ensure visitors enjoy “an environment of tranquility, safety and high level of services.”
For that reason, Stek and Pasyxe called on parliament not to proceed with the proposed law and to wait for the completion of the government’s broader initiative so a comprehensive and properly documented bill can be submitted.
They said such legislation should respond to the real needs of both the sector and society, stressing that “ensuring the quality of the tourism product and the visitor’s experience cannot be jeopardised.”
What steps should parliament take before moving forward with legislation affecting the tourism sector?
