Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Small shopkeepers’ association Povek said tourism stakeholders have requested an urgent meeting with Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis, citing mounting concerns over the sector’s condition.
Request for government updates
Povek said the meeting request aims to obtain updates on government actions and intentions regarding support measures for the tourism industry.
Stakeholders meeting in Ayia Napa
The organisation said the decision followed a meeting held last Monday in Ayia Napa to assess the situation. Participants included the Famagusta leisure centres association, the Ayia Napa shopkeepers association, the water sports and recreation association, and the vehicle rental association.
Concerns over conflict-related impact
During the meeting, stakeholders discussed what Povek described as “the tragic situation businesses in purely tourist areas have fallen into due to the consequences of the conflict in the Middle East”.
Povek said a sharp decline in tourist traffic has led to a significant reduction in turnover, in some cases exceeding 50 per cent, for businesses operating in purely tourist areas, with bleak forecasts for the summer months.
Risks to business viability and employment
Povek warned that risks to business viability are clearly visible and said threats to employment are growing. It said workers face the possibility of remaining out of work for the entire summer season, raising concerns about broader labour market stability.
The organisation also highlighted the risk of disruption to employment conditions as businesses struggle to maintain operations.
Call for immediate response
Povek said it is addressing the government, competent ministries, political and economic bodies, and trade unions, calling on them to respond immediately and responsibly and to support businesses and employees in purely tourist areas with specific measures and actions.
What measures do you think the government should prioritise to support businesses and employees in purely tourist areas?
