The Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) held its 27th Annual General Meeting on 26 February at the Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel Gozo. The meeting opened with the approval of the previous minutes, presented by secretary Mark Busuttil, and the financial report delivered by treasurer Konrad Scicluna.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Dr Ian Borg, noted the continued rise in tourist arrivals to Gozo, attributing the growth to focused strategies, collaboration and targeted initiatives. He described tourism as a pillar of Gozo’s economy, thanked the outgoing council, and welcomed the newly-appointed members.
GTA chairman Paul Scicluna acknowledged the strong 2025 results but warned of ongoing challenges. He expressed concern that rapid development could erode Gozo’s unique character and cautioned that rising operating costs may impact competitiveness. He also stressed the importance of preserving authentic Gozitan hospitality through a well-trained workforce.
MTA CEO Carlo Micallef outlined the Maltese islands’ 2025 tourism performance, highlighting marketing campaigns and a strategic shift towards niche markets. GTA CEO Joe Muscat presented an audio-visual review of the association’s 2025 initiatives and Gozo’s tourism trends. MTA chairman Dr Charles Mangion emphasised Gozo’s role as a distinct destination and underlined continued collaboration between the MTA and GTA.
Opposition spokesperson Dr Chris Said praised the sector’s growth and called for improved connectivity, including renewal of the Gozo Channel fleet and port infrastructure. He also highlighted the rural airfield project and Gozo’s designation as European Cultural City 2031 as key opportunities for sustainable, long-term development.
In a message delivered by director of Tourism Ronald Sultana, Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri highlighted double-digit growth during the winter and shoulder months and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Gozo as a year-round destination supported by culture and sustainability.
During the AGM, members approved the GTA Council for 2025. Also in attendance were representatives from the Directorate for Tourism and Economic Development, the GRDA, the MTA Gozo Office, the NSO Gozo Office, and other stakeholders.