Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1543739
4 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 6 MARCH 2026 NEWS TOURIST arrivals to Gozo con- tinued to increase in 2025, re- flecting a positive trajectory for the island's tourism sector, it was stated during the 27th Annu- al General Meeting of the Gozo Tourism Association held on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at the Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel Gozo. The agenda included the read- ing of the previous AGM minutes by GTA Secretary Mark Busuttil and the presentation of the fi- nancial report by GTA Treasurer Konrad Scicluna. In his address, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, highlighted that the sustained growth in tourism reflects delib- erate strategies, strong collabora- tions, and targeted initiatives that have enhanced Gozo's visibility and appeal. He emphasised that tourism remains a cornerstone of Gozo's economy and called for continued synergy among all stakeholders to further strength- en the island's touristic offering. He also thanked the outgoing GTA Council for its work and welcomed the newly appointed council, expressing confidence in continued productive collabora- tion. GTA Chairman Paul Scicluna acknowledged the positive tour- ism results achieved in 2025 but stressed that several challenges continue to affect the sector. He expressed concern that Gozo's distinct charm is being eroded by rapid development. While im- provements to the tourism prod- uct are welcomed, unchecked construction risks undermining the island's unique character. Scicluna also noted the rising operating costs faced by tourism operators, which could threaten the destination's competitive- ness if not addressed. He further remarked that although Gozo's hospitality is rooted in authen- tic, warm service, businesses are increasingly dependent on em- ployees from across Europe and beyond. He underscored the im- portance of safeguarding the au- thenticity of the Gozitan tourism product through a well-trained and skilled workforce. MTA CEO Mr Carlo Micallef delivered a presentation on the tourism results achieved by the Maltese Islands in 2025. He out- lined the various marketing cam- paigns undertaken by the MTA and explained the strategic shift toward targeting specific niche markets. GTA Chief Executive Officer Mr Joe Muscat presented an au- dio-visual overview of the As- sociation's performance during 2025. His presentation included an analysis of Gozo's tourism per- formance over the past year and a review of the initiatives carried out by the Association through- out 2025. The Chairman of the Mal- ta Tourism Authority, Charles Mangion, provided insights into the results achieved during the past year and highlighted the importance of the diverse tour- ism experiences offered by Gozo, described as the "jewel" of the Maltese destination. He outlined the additional efforts being un- dertaken by the MTA to promote Gozo's niche tourism segments and emphasised the strong col- laboration between the MTA and the GTA in positioning Gozo as a distinct destination. The Opposition Spokesperson, Chris Said, also addressed the meeting. He commended the GTA for its achievements and noted the continued growth in tourist arrivals to Gozo, reflecting the island's enduring appeal. Said stressed the need for a holistic approach to renewing the Gozo Channel fleet and upgrading port infrastructure, noting that con- nectivity is essential for the sec- tor's development. He reiterated the importance of developing the rural airfield and highlighted the valuable work carried out by the Malta Tourism Authority, the Directorate for Tourism and Economic Development, and the GTA. Dr Said also remarked that Gozo's selection as the European Cultural City for 2031 presents a significant opportunity for the tourism sector, provided that it results in long-lasting cultural projects and legacy initiatives. The meeting concluded with a message from the Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camill- eri, delivered by Ronald Sultana, Director of Tourism. He high- lighted the double-digit growth in tourist arrivals during the winter and shoulder months of the past year. Minister Camilleri reaf- firmed the Government's com- mitment to continued investment in the tourism industry, noting that the strong results achieved in 2025 reinforce the drive to fur- ther enhance the tourism prod- uct. The objective remains to position Gozo as a distinct, year- round destination supported by a robust cultural calendar and a sustainable tourism strategy. During the AGM, the following members were approved to form the Gozo Tourism Association Council for 2025: Borg Marvic, Busuttil Mark, Farrugia Joseph, Gatt Ludgard, Grech Ryan, Kis- ling Ana, Loporto Mario, Mac- donald Naomi, Meilak Leanne, Mercieca Joe, Mifsud Ivan, Sci- cluna Konrad, Scicluna Paul, Spiteri Pauline, Veranneman Amand. Also present for the meeting were the Director for Tourism and Economic Development, the CEO of the GRDA, officials from the MTA Gozo Office, and the NSO Gozo Office, as well as oth- er distinguished guests and GTA members. Strong tourism growth for Gozo amid calls to safeguard island's identity The GTA General Meeting took place on 26 February 2026