Hospitality Leaders Gather in Cyprus Amid European Tourism Challenges

Hospitality leaders from across Europe gathered in Paphos, Cyprus, for the 91st General Assembly of HOTREC, co-hosted by the Cyprus Hotels Association (CHA). The assembly comes at a pivotal moment for Europe’s two million-strong hospitality businesses, which are grappling with persistent labor shortages, rising costs, and geopolitical uncertainties affecting travel and tourism flows.

Cyprus Sets Ambitious Agenda Ahead of EU Presidency

President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, highlighted the nation’s strategic role ahead of its upcoming European Union Council Presidency in January 2026.

“As Cyprus prepares to take the EU Council Presidency, we are determined to seize the opportunity with ambition and confidence, leveraging the European Tourism Agenda 2030 and exploring new frontiers in tourism,” he said.

Christodoulides emphasized that during Cyprus’s presidency, the new European Tourism Strategy will be presented, discussed, and translated into concrete actions. “It will be a cornerstone for our focus on enhancing EU competitiveness, including simplification and reducing bureaucracy, as well as during the complex negotiations for the new EU Multiannual Financial Framework,” he added.

Industry Leaders Call for European Solutions

Alexandros Vassilikos, HOTREC President, emphasized both the resilience and the vulnerability of the hospitality sector. He highlighted the need for European-level solutions to address European challenges, calling for fair regulations in the digital economy, improved financing conditions for businesses, and supportive policies that foster job creation. He also underscored that unity and solidarity continue to be the industry’s greatest strengths.

HOTREC Director General Marie Audren pointed to the urgent need for tangible measures addressing workforce shortages, high energy costs, and regulatory pressures faced by Europe’s hospitality SMEs. The organization is calling on the incoming EU Presidency to prioritize competitiveness and create regulatory space that allows businesses to thrive.

Ireland Hosts Next Assembly
Members will reconvene for the 92nd General Assembly of HOTREC in Cork, Ireland, in April 2026, continuing discussions on key issues shaping the future of European hospitality.

Source: tovima.com