Key Tourism Figures 2017: Yiannis A. Retsos, President Greek Tourism Confederation

Official Tourism Message

Having grown robustly over the last seven years, tourism is without doubt the driving force of the Greek economy. It has boosted employment, created regional development and actively supported local communities.

It is no coincidence that the sector contributes, directly and indirectly, 20-25% of Greece’s GDP. Indeed, at its peak it exceeds 30% of the country’s total employment, with particularly high rates among sensitive social groups, such as women and young people.

We are now ready to build on this success. We remain wholly committed to implementing our strategic roadmap, with confidence and realism.

Our goals for the coming period are clear and specific.

Focusing on becoming even more outward-looking, cultivating synergies and encouraging sustainable development, we will work to:

• • Further strengthen the position and prestige of Greek tourism in major markets
  • Unite the entire sector by combining all views and ensuring labor equality and social peace
  • Achieve a lasting and beneficial relationship with the respective government for the benefit of the Greek economy and the country as a whole
  • Strengthen the social dimension and footprint of the tourism industry

Our unique environmental, cultural, culinary and high-quality offering is our competitive advantage.

It is our duty to safeguard and further develop the competitiveness of our sector, invest in the human factor, promote the beauty and diversity of our destinations and work collaboratively for the sake of Greek economy and society.