The European Tourism Association (ETOA) and New Deal Europe (NDE) are entering into a strategic partnership for South-Eastern, Central and Eastern Europe, creating for the first time a single framework for representation and development in one of the fastest growing tourism regions of the continent.
The aim of the partnership is to create a stronger and unified voice for tourism intermediaries and suppliers in the region, strengthening connectivity, visibility and access to markets.
The partnership covers, among others, Greece. Specifically, the regions included in it are
Southeastern Europe:
Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia
Central & Eastern Europe:
Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Ukraine
Record growth in the region
According to available data, Central and Eastern Europe saw an increase of more than 20% in international arrivals this year – the largest of any European region. Southern Europe follows with 10%, while the rise of low-cost airlines and improved regional connectivity make Southeastern Europe more accessible to travelers from across Europe and the world.
By strengthening regional cooperation and sustainability initiatives, the wider region is establishing itself as one of the continent’s most attractive and emerging tourism destinations.
The role of the two organisations
Under the agreement:
- New Deal Europe will act as ETOA’s recognised regional partner in the countries concerned.
- ETOA will organise an annual regional workshop in partnership with NDE, offering new opportunities for networking, contracts and professional collaboration.
The leaders’ statements
ETOA CEO Tom Jenkins said: “South-Eastern, Central and Eastern Europe is a dynamic growth prospect for sustainable tourism. This partnership strengthens ETOA’s ability to connect global buyers with regional suppliers and destinations. It also ensures that the region’s voice is adequately represented in European tourism policy discussions.”
NDE co-founder Tine Murn added: “We are extremely pleased to deepen our partnership with ETOA. Together we have supported tourism across Southeastern Europe during a period of remarkable growth in both visitor numbers and spending, and we are proud to support this dynamic region.
This growth is driven by tourists’ desire to engage with the authentic culture, exceptional destinations and diverse nature-based experiences that abound in Central Europe.
By working closely with ETOA and our regional partners, we can shine a light on the enormous potential of Central Europe, supporting responsible development, encouraging innovative partnerships and strengthening the collective identity of these markets in the wider European tourism landscape.”
