Statement by the ministry for tourism concerning the new tourism policy and strategic plan

The Minister for Tourism, Edward Zammit Lewis noted with interest the suggestions made by MHRA with regards to the new Tourism Policy. During the debate on MTA’s financial estimates held this Monday in Parliament, Edward Zammit Lewis explained that the tourism policy will be reviewed in the coming weeks and consequently a strategic plan will be built upon the new policy.

Minister for Tourism Edward Zammit Lewis stated that the Ministry, in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority, is already exploring new and profitable market segments for the industry focusing on sustainable and quality tourism.

The Minister for Tourism has communicated this idea during his last meeting with MHRA where he also explained the importance of MHRA's participation in putting together the documentation. Furthermore, the Minister outlined that the record numbers obtained in tourism are in line with MHRA’s stated objectives resulting in high hotel occupancy levels and improved profitability. This is a very positive result which is not only being reflected in the hotel sector but is also being felt in other areas of the economy as for example restaurants, as was outlined two weeks ago in the report published by MHRA on the results in this sector.

Minister Edward Zammit Lewis reassured MHRA that, as has already happened in the last two months, the MHRA will continue to be consulted during the development of new policies.