Tourism minister cites long-term strategy during London visit

Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis has returned to Malta from London after days of meetings and discussions with several British and Irish tourist operators to Malta. 

During one particular meeting with an operator ‘Malta Specialists’ – which specialises in Malta as a destination, Zammit Lewis explained the ongoing efforts by government policy and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA)  to improve the tourism product of Malta. He also heard several proposals from operators that could be considered as beneficial for the sector.

Meanwhile, the minister, together with his delegation, visited the MTA office in Putney, London, where they were welcomed by Regional Director Alex Incorvaja and other officials from the office. A formal meeting was also held with all members in the office working on the region of the UK and Ireland, during which presentations on ongoing works were shown in preparation for a campaign to promote Malta as a touristic destination.

Although the number of tourists who visit Malta every year from these regions is always good, and continues to grow, intensive work is being carried out for specific types of tourism expected to be developed in the coming months.

Zammit Lewis later visited the office of Air Malta, also located in Putney London, where the office’s manager, Mario Ghio, introduced the staff and explained the wide range of operations carried out by the office. Zammit Lewis expressed appreciation for the valuable contribution that the national carrier airline and its workers have always given, despite the growing competition in the sector. The challenges that Air Malta has had are not easy doable, Zammit Lewis said.

Other important meetings held during his visit to London, were with tour operators Thomas Cook Group, TUI Group and others, who operate to Malta among other destination.

Various points of importance for the tourism sector were discussed at the meetings, including a strategy to create a holistic touristic approach for the winter months. Describing it as “government’s commitment”, the minister said that seasons had to be better stabilised in the tourism sector, with long-term plans needed.

Zammit Lewis said that he will be doing everything possible so that the destination product of Malta continues to improve in quality and customer satisfaction of all groups operating to the country.

Upon his arrival in Malta, the minister said that the series of meetings brought up issues which were very important for the tourism sector of the country. “Although we are in the middle of the summer season, we will never be completely satisfied with the figures and numbers of inbound tourists,” he said. “Rather, we are constantly working to ensure that we continue to improve our product quality and develop long-term plans for the sector.” 

Zammit Lewis was accompanied by the Chief Executive of the MTA, Josef Formosa Gauci, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism.