In recent years, there has been more awareness of the need to transition from a quantity-driven to a qualityfocused tourism product. In what way could such a shift for Malta and Gozo’s tourism sector open further investment opportunities?

The distinction between quantity and quality isn’t always straightforward, as the two concepts can often overlap. In the case of Gozo, I believe quality goes beyond just ‘expenditure per capita’. Our vision for Gozo is to offer an immersive experience where tourists discover local products, engage with our rich cultural heritage and connect with the locals to experience our way of life. By highlighting this experiential side, we encourage longer stays and promote the type of sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and the local community.

We are also driven to attract higher-spending visitors seeking premium, high-standard experiences. Investors who provide upscale, unique accommodation experiences will find fertile ground for growth in Gozo. The global demand for wellness experiences is growing, and Gozo’s tranquil natural environment positions it as the perfect destination for wellness resorts, yoga retreats and spa facilities.

“Investors who provide upscale, unique accommodation experiences will find fertile ground for growth in Gozo.”

The MTA’s Malta Tourism Strategy 2021-2030 calls for Gozo to be established as a “distinct tourism destination” focusing on “relaxation, wellness, gastronomy, active and rural tourism experiences in a lower volume setting.” Why is this a priority and how can it be achieved?

Establishing Gozo as a distinct tourism destination is a priority because it leverages the island’s unique qualities that set it apart from mainland Malta. Gozo’s slower pace, unspoiled natural beauty and deep-rooted agricultural traditions make it the ideal place for visitors seeking relaxation and authenticity, a combination that is increasingly sought after in global tourism. To achieve this, we are focusing on promoting Gozo’s core offerings – wellness, gastronomy and rural tourism – through targeted marketing campaigns. Investing in eco-friendly transportation, high-quality accommodations, and accessible tourist facilities, while preserving Gozo’s natural environment, is another critical aspect of this vision.

What is your vision for Gozo’s tourism sector in the years to come?

Our vision for Gozo’s tourism sector is to strike a balance between sustainable growth and preserving the island’s unique charm. We see Gozo becoming a premier destination for eco-conscious travellers, where relaxation, wellness and active tourism seamlessly coexist with our rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. We, together with all stakeholders, will continue investing in eco-friendly infrastructure while encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable practices, with the aim of positioning Gozo as a model for green tourism in the Mediterranean. Tourism should benefit the Gozitan community by creating jobs, supporting local businesses and contributing to the island’s economic prosperity – all while respecting our way of life and protecting the environment.

Our long-term goal, and we firmly believe we are achieving this, is to establish Gozo as a year-round destination, not just a summer getaway. By promoting off-season travel through wellness retreats, cultural events and rural tourism, we can create a more stable and sustainable tourism economy that spreads its benefits throughout the entire year. Through these initiatives, I am confident that Gozo can flourish as a distinct and sustainable destination, offering both locals and visitors an authentic and enriching experience.

Finally, the sports tourism segment has tremendous growth potential in the near future, particularly with the investment in the Gozo Indoor Sports and Aquatic Pavilion – a state-of-the-art complex designed to accommodate a variety of sports disciplines.