At the conference "Green Istria 2030 - New Investments in Istrian Tourism", Minister of Tourism and Sports Tonči Glavina welcomed all investments in Croatian tourism, and once again called for responsible pricing, so that Croatia would not be considered a destination that does not offer a good price-quality ratio.
"Today, Croatia is practically one of the leaders in Europe and the world in terms of tourism development, especially that based on sustainable practices. Our legislative framework, the funds we allocate and all tenders are aimed precisely at investments that preserve the environment, take care of people and ensure the quality of life, both for our citizens, guests and future generations," said Glavina.
The green transition in tourism investments is extremely important and investing in sustainability today is not an investment in some kind of superior standard or luxury, he added.
Speaking about the results of this tourist year, he pointed out that Croatia achieved the best post-season so far, while the pre-season months also brought strong growth.
"For the first time in history, we have record tourist numbers in arrivals and overnight stays, but they were not achieved in July and August - but in the pre-season and post-season, and that is extremely important. September and October are currently above all expectations, with growth of more than five percent, which confirms that Croatia is becoming a year-round tourist destination," said Glavina.
Prices must be justified by quality
He warned that maintaining such good results is challenging, especially without strengthening price competitiveness.
He stressed that prices in tourism must be justified by the quality of service that guests receive. Otherwise, he points out, it is necessary to consider price adjustments.
"If we want to maintain the prices we currently have, the level of service quality must be raised. If quality does not increase, then the only responsible measure is price correction," said Glavina.
"We must not put ourselves in a situation where we are perceived as a destination that does not offer a good price-quality ratio," he warned.
He believes that the results in tourism would be even better with stronger price competitiveness.
"All research clearly shows that the motives of travel are changing, Glavina pointed out and appealed to the entire tourism sector to work together to strengthen the relationship between price and quality, not only in hospitality and accommodation, but also in the wider context of the tourist experience.
The conference brought together numerous representatives of the tourism sector, local government and economy, and focused on the future of Istrian tourism - green investments, sustainability and the direction in which Istria should develop in the next decade.
Source: Hina/Government
Photo: Vlada.hr
