Gozo tourism chief warns: Gozo’s distinct charm being eroded by rapid development

The Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) has raised concerns that Gozo’s distinct charm is being eroded by rapid development, a key issue highlighted during the association’s 26th Annual General Meeting.

GTA Chairman Paul Scicluna acknowledged the positive tourism figures for 2024 but warned that rapid development threatens to alter the very essence that makes Gozo an attractive destination.

“During 2024 tourism in Gozo registered positive numbers, yet one cannot put aside certain issues that are of concern to the tourism sector on Gozo. The tourism sector on Gozo is concerned that Gozo’s distinct charm is being eroded by rapid development. While the sector welcomes improvements to the tourism product, unchecked development threatens the island’s unique appeal.”

These concerns were voiced during the GTA’s Annual General Meeting, held at the Cesca Boutique Hotel in Xlendi. The event brought together key stakeholders and officials to discuss the past year’s tourism performance and future strategies for the island’s sustainability.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg opened the meeting by emphasising Gozo’s increasing tourist arrivals. He attributed this growth to strategic initiatives and collaborations aimed at enhancing the island’s appeal.

Dr Borg reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustaining this momentum, calling for stakeholders to work together to further improve Gozo’s tourism industry: “The positive trajectory is the result of deliberate strategies, key collaborations and initiatives that have elevated Gozo’s profile. Tourism remains the corner stone of Gozo’s economy, therefore it is essential for all stakeholders to synergise efforts to sustain and improve Gozo’s touristic appeal.”

The GTA’s Chief Executive Officer, Joe Muscat, provided a detailed overview of the association’s work and the island’s tourism performance in 2024 through an audio-visual presentation.

Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) Chairman Charles Mangion emphasised Gozo’s unique touristic diversity and reaffirmed the MTA’s commitment to promoting the island as a niche destination. He praised the collaboration between MTA and GTA, pledging further efforts to enhance Gozo’s visibility on the international stage.

Opposition Spokesperson Alex Borg also addressed the AGM, calling for a holistic approach to upgrading the Gozo Channel fleet to strengthen connectivity, a crucial factor in sustaining the tourism sector.

Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri concluded the meeting by underscoring the government’s commitment to investing further in tourism, ensuring Gozo remains a distinct, year-round destination while safeguarding its long-term sustainability.

The AGM also saw the election of the 2025 GTA Council, with representatives from various sectors reaffirming their commitment to advocating for the island’s tourism industry.