Mizzi emphasises importance of tourism industry for island states

"Tourism is one of the principle activities in Malta and therefore an essential source of job creation, livelihood and economic growth", said MEP Marlene Mizzi at a meeting of the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee (IMCO) during a discussion on the new challenges and concepts for the promotion of tourism in Europe.

Members of the European Parliament are currently working on a strategic report to provide recommendations to the European Commission and Member States, which would guide their policies in the tourism industry during the next five years.

During her intervention Mizzi insisted that for island states such as Malta, international tourism is of particular significance and often represents a major source of revenue, but at the same time is subject to specific social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities.

Unlike big countries, small States cannot depend on internal tourism and the marketing thrust has to have international appeal. In this regard Mizzi called for the tapping of the potential offered by the internet and e-commerce to the tourism industry ,which are being increasingly utilised by travellers, while ensuring  consumer rights are safeguarded.

"The Union is a maritime continent, and we need to unlock the potential of coastal and maritime tourism, which is a lever for growth and job creation, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Its economic impact is across the board and it provides thousands of jobs. Promoting coastal and maritime tourism is one of the most promising options for economic growth and development, thus fostering competitiveness of our businesses and engaging them as global players at the world tourism market," said Mizzi.

"Ever since I became a Member of the Intergroup on European Tourism Development in the European Parliament, I have been working  to ensure that any particular recommendations emerging from this house would definitely recognise the importance of Coastal and Island Areas.

"I have tabled numerous amendments in the different Committees that are involved in the drafting of this strategic report in order to ensure that the interest of Malta with regards to tourism, are represented at a European level."

In some of her amendments Mizzi called for more connectivity and accessibility, for islands that depend largely on sea and air transport. Promoting Europe as a whole is an excellent idea, however there is a need to promote Europe not only as a tourist destination, but as well as a destination of excellence with a diversity of cultures and traditions.