Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Transport and Tourism, delivered a keynote speech on November 14, 2025, at the 40th Philoxenia International Tourism Expo in Thessaloniki. His address outlined a multifaceted policy orientation aimed at enhancing the EU’s tourism sector through a new European tourism strategy.
A Strategic Vision for Tourism Competitiveness
Commissioner Tzitzikostas emphasized the need for a "new, comprehensive European common tourism strategy," designed to boost competitiveness and enable sustainable growth. He proposed support for innovation, investments, and digital transformation, elements that signal an increase in EU-level guidance and coordination. There is a clear policy inclination toward strengthening the role of EU institutions in managing tourism flows and ensuring quality standards across member states.
Balancing Competitiveness and Authenticity
Tzitzikostas underscored the importance of preserving the authenticity of tourist destinations, highlighting Europe's cultural and natural heritage as a key asset. This approach aims to reconcile economic growth with cultural preservation and quality tourism experiences rather than purely focusing on volume metrics.
Policy Specifics and Stakeholders’ Impact
While no precise numerical targets or new institutional bodies were announced, the Commissioner committed to measurable goals such as better managing tourism flows and supporting local communities’ socioeconomic welfare.
Positive Impacts: EU tourism businesses, especially hotels and services, may benefit from increased investments and digital upgrades, potentially driving competitiveness. Local populations and cultural sectors stand to gain from enhanced infrastructure and sustainable tourism models, strengthening cultural preservation.
Potential Challenges: Increased EU coordination might entail more regulations, raising compliance costs for private sector operators. Local authorities could face administrative burdens balancing tourist inflows with community interests.
In summary, Tzitzikostas’ position advocates moderately increased EU influence in tourism regulation with an emphasis on competitiveness and authenticity, reflecting a balancing act between economic and cultural priorities across stakeholders.