Cyprus may break its record for tourist arrivals from France this year, according to Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis. Speaking during a series of meetings in the French capital, Koumis, who is leading Cyprus' delegation at the 2024 IFTM tourism exhibition, expressed optimism that arrivals from France could surpass last year’s figure of 80,000 visitors.

According to a press release by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, Koumis had discussions with senior officials from tourism organizations and airlines operating between France and Cyprus. The focus of the talks included the continued growth of the French market in Cyprus, which is expected to set new records this year, as well as visitor satisfaction and efforts by the ministry to promote niche tourism.  

At the IFTM exhibition, the Cyprus delegation hosted a breakfast featuring traditional Cypriot cuisine, in line with the “Cyprus Breakfast” initiative. Notable guests included Valerie Boned, President of the French Association of Travel Agents, and Lawrence Gaborieau, Director of the IFTM exhibition. The annual event is one of the largest and oldest professional tourism exhibitions in the world, attracting thousands of industry professionals.

The French market has seen a significant 25% increase in tourist arrivals to Cyprus from January to August 2024 compared to the previous year, and an impressive 217% rise compared to the same period in 2019.

Koumis highlighted that the French market had been slow to grow in Cyprus due to several factors, most notably the preference of French tourists for French-speaking destinations. However, he pointed out that in recent years, there has been a notable surge in French arrivals, with this year expected to set a new record.

“We must conduct a thorough analysis of the profile of the French visitor,” Koumis said, adding that recent surveys show French travelers are particularly conscious of environmental issues and green development. "They assess destinations based on sustainable practices, which is why green transition efforts are essential for the future of tourism."

Koumis further emphasized the importance of continuing to attract French tourists in the coming year, building on this year’s high performance while considering evolving trends in visitor preferences.

“About 50% of French tourists prioritize sun and sea destinations, but we are also seeing a growing interest in lesser-known locations, which is a dynamic trend that extends beyond France,” he said.

Koumis concluded by stressing the importance of Cyprus’ tourism industry embracing sustainable practices, which have become a key criterion for visitors in choosing their destinations.