Deputy Minister of Tourism, Costas Koumis, was a guest on the 20th episode of TSOUROULLIS "UNCENSORED" on PoditCy, talking about the historic record of 4,5 million arrivals to Cyprus in 2025, which was also accompanied by record revenues.
The Deputy Minister said that the loss of the Russian market was covered by many other markets. The UK market recorded a 15% increase over a three-year period, while the German market broke its record this year, after 28 years. The markets of Israel, Poland, the United Arab Emirates, the Balkan countries and Sweden also recorded an increase. The addition of new routes and the increase in the frequency of several flights, which facilitated accessibility, contributed to the success.
Mr. Koumis added that Cyprus is comparatively a country with excellent basic infrastructure, despite the fact that its airports are undergoing renovations that should have been done some years ago. The Deputy Minister of Tourism makes particular reference to the lack of culture, which must be cultivated in order to make the island more attractive to tourists. To this end, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism has announced a plan to upgrade tourist accommodations in mountainous areas, where reduced demand has led several tourism businesses to decline, as well as a plan for the qualitative upgrade of beaches.
Regarding the British Channel 4 documentary, the Deputy Minister expresses sadness and concern, emphasizing that some people are stuck in bad mindsets that belong to other times, and announces a broad meeting with the aim of combating these phenomena.
The Deputy Minister stated that Ayia Napa as a destination has changed a lot in recent years, and has transformed into a destination that offers high-level hospitality.
Watch the interview:
