From soaring prices to geopolitical tensions, operators say more must be done to protect Italy’s tourism future.
Price pressures
Out-of-control prices are an issue confirms Filippo Pagliara, DMC manager of Chiriatti. “Key challenges this year include unjustified price hikes and limited hotel availability in cities like Rome, Florence and Naples.” “The main challenge - says Julian Zappalà, general manger of Dimensione Sicilia, -remains the high cost of flights, which penalizes Sicily. It is a recurring issue, although the launch of direct flights from destinations such as Dubai and New York has helped to diversify and redistribute traffic.”
Political uncertainty
The Russia crisis is depriving Italy of a loyal, high-spending source market. “Above all the crisis with Russia needs to be resolved, as it is a high-spending nation with a strong affection for Italy and Italians,- says Filippo Pagliara, DMC manager of Chiriatti. -We have important Russian partners, and before Covid we had a lot of commercial exchange. They all say that Italy consistently tops their customers’ wish lists, so we are the one losing out the most in this crisis.”
Policy backing
"We really need stronger support at a national level,- adds Dina Ravera, president of Destination Italia. -I’m talking about tax incentives on labour costs and levies that strongly penalize us towards the TAOs, practical measures for training tourism professionals and easing access to credit for digital innovation and tourism promotion. An integrated public-private model is needed to promote quality inbound tourism throughout the year and the country, focusing on Italian operators rather than large foreign players, who overlook the country’s real priorities.
