Tourism sector faces decline in Cyprus amid geopolitical uncertainty

Cyprus reported a 16 per cent decrease in passenger arrivals for April 2026 compared to the previous year, totaling 95,000 fewer visitors. Aircraft load factors also fell to 76 per cent from 83 per cent, while seat capacity for the April-October summer season has been reduced by 5 per cent. Projections indicate a 9 per cent decline in summer passenger arrivals, equating to 450,000 fewer travelers. Industry representatives in Ayia Napa met to discuss the impact of the Middle East conflict on local businesses, urging government support. Meanwhile, official data shows January-February 2026 tourism revenue reached 159.9 million euros, a 7.4 per cent increase from the previous year, despite a 2.3 per cent drop in average per-person expenditure. Finance Minister Makis Keravnos noted that geopolitical conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, contribute to global economic instability. President Nikos Christodoulides is scheduled to attend the 16th annual Stelios Bi-Communal Awards to promote business cooperation.