ECONOMY

Tourism industry loses momentum

The prolonged uncertainty regarding the Greek economy, which is not seen disappearing before Athens reaches an agreement with the country’s creditors, is taking its toll on the short-term prospects of Greek tourism, according to the sector’s professionals.

At an event on the Ionian island of Corfu, the head of the Association of Hellenic Tourism Enterprises (SETE), Andreas Andreadis, spoke of his concern that it will be difficult this year for Greek tourism to meet the record projections originally made for an increase of 1 million in the number of visitors and for more that 14 billion euros of direct takings.

“As long as no deal is sealed with our creditors, and calm and cash flow do not return to our economy, things will become ever more difficult and new obstacles will be raised for us as we strive to meet our targets,” he stated. He did add that “there is a light at the end of the tunnel though,” estimating that the first negative signs could be reversed. He also noted that “the Greek government is using every negotiating tool available to secure the best possible future for all of us,” asking for all social partners (employers and employees) to support that effort.

Andreadis further referred to SETE’s new planning with the launch of its first five regional offices in the regions of Central Greece, the Ionian Islands, Central Macedonia, the Peloponnese and the Southern Aegean. Their main purpose is to develop a network for the promotion of quality and the support of enterprises, professionals and employees in the tourism sector.

The new Corfu-based Regional Office for the Ionian Islands will, according to the SETE chief, play a substantial role in the local community as a strategic consultant to the regional and local authorities, the region’s entrepreneurship and the tourism community in general.

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