Last AGM

The Gozo Tourism Association held its 27th Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at the Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel Gozo. The agenda included the reading of the previous AGM minutes by GTA Secretary Mr. Mark Busuttil and the presentation of the financial report by GTA Treasurer Mr. Konrad Scicluna.

In his opening address, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Dr. Ian Borg, highlighted the continued increase in tourist arrivals to Gozo. He noted that this positive trajectory reflects deliberate strategies, strong collaborations, and targeted initiatives that have elevated Gozo’s visibility and appeal. Dr. Borg emphasised that tourism remains a cornerstone of Gozo’s economy and called for sustained synergy among all stakeholders to further strengthen the island’s touristic offering. He thanked the outgoing GTA Council for its work and welcomed the newly appointed council, expressing confidence in continued productive collaboration.

GTA Chairman Mr. Paul Scicluna acknowledged the positive tourism results achieved in 2025 but stressed that several challenges continue to affect the sector. He expressed concern that Gozo’s distinct charm is being eroded by rapid development. While improvements to the tourism product are welcomed, unchecked construction risks undermining the island’s unique character. Mr. Scicluna also noted the rising operating costs faced by tourism operators, which could threaten the destination’s competitiveness if not addressed. He further remarked that although Gozo’s hospitality is rooted in authentic, warm service, businesses are increasingly dependent on employees from across Europe and beyond. He underscored the importance of safeguarding the authenticity of the Gozitan tourism product through a well‑trained and skilled workforce.

MTA CEO Mr. Carlo Micallef delivered a presentation on the tourism results achieved by the Maltese Islands in 2025. He outlined the various marketing campaigns undertaken by the MTA and explained the strategic shift toward targeting specific niche markets.

GTA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Joe Muscat, presented an audio‑visual overview of the Association’s performance during 2025. His presentation included an analysis of Gozo’s tourism performance over the past year, and a review of the initiatives carried out by the Association throughout 2025.

The Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority, Dr. Charles Mangion, provided insights into the results achieved during the past year and highlighted the importance of the diverse tourism experiences offered by Gozo, the “jewel” of the Maltese destination. He outlined the additional efforts being undertaken by the MTA to promote Gozo’s niche tourism segments and emphasized the strong collaboration between the MTA and the GTA in positioning Gozo as a distinct destination.

The Opposition Spokesperson, Dr. Chris Said, also addressed the meeting. He commended the GTA for its achievements and noted the continued growth in tourist arrivals to Gozo, which reflects the island’s enduring appeal. Dr. Said stressed the need for a holistic approach to renewing the Gozo Channel fleet and upgrading port infrastructure, noting that connectivity is essential for the sector’s development. He reiterated the importance of developing the rural airfield and highlighted the valuable work carried out by the Malta Tourism Authority, the Directorate for Tourism and Economic Development, and the GTA. Dr. Said also remarked that Gozo’s selection as the European Cultural City for 2031 presents a significant opportunity for the tourism sector, provided that it results in long‑lasting cultural projects and legacy initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a message from the Minister for Gozo and Planning, Hon. Clint Camilleri, delivered by Mr. Ronald Sultana, Director of Tourism. He highlighted the double‑digit growth in tourist arrivals during the winter and shoulder months of the past year. Minister Camilleri reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continued investment in the tourism industry, noting that the strong results achieved in 2025 reinforce the drive to further enhance the tourism product. The objective remains to position Gozo as a distinct, year‑round destination supported by a robust cultural calendar and a sustainable tourism strategy.

During the AGM, the following members were approved to form the Gozo Tourism Association Council for 2025: Borg Marvic, Busuttil Mark, Farrugia Joseph, Gatt Ludgard, Grech Ryan, Kisling Ana, Loporto Mario, Macdonald Naomi, Meilak Leanne, Mercieca Joe, Mifsud Ivan, Scicluna Konrad, Scicluna Paul, Spiteri Pauline, Veranneman Amand. Also present for the meeting were the Director for Tourism and Economic Development, the CEO of the GRDA, officials from the MTA Gozo Office, and the NSO Gozo Office, as well as other distinguished guests and GTA members.

Follow the administrative report in the video presentation below.

Downloadable Resources

• Administrative Report for year 2025
• Minutes of the 26th Annual General Meeting of the GTA