Elvira Amata, councillor for tourism, sport and entertainment for the Sicily Region brought to the recent BIT travel exhibition Sicily’s challenge which is “winning on multiple fronts.”
Transforming challenges into opportunities for growth
Describing an island rich in cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes and excellent food and wine, she also addressed the challenges that are holding back its development, underscoring the commitment to transforming them into opportunities for growth. “The balance sheet is certainly positive as confirmed by the figures, with growth posted in both arrivals and overnight stays. But the most significant data concerns the quality of the work carried out, particularly in terms of deseasonalization and delocalization. The seasonality index has gone from 0.64 in 2023 to 0.62 in 2025, a concrete result that was not easy to achieve, and was the result of planning, flow analysis and constant monitoring.” said Amati.
“Sicily is competitive on an international level”
Now the goal is to concentrate resources where they generate real economic development. “We don't want tourists who merely visit Sicily, but who experience it. Sicily is competitive on an international level thanks to its unique natural, monumental and architectural heritage. However, tourism is a cross-cutting sector: without efficient transport, enhanced cultural heritage and synergy between agriculture, economic development and the hospitality system, it cannot grow. Hotels can also contribute by promoting other destinations on the island, such as Agrigento, Selinunte, Segesta and Taormina, in order to create widespread development and new jobs, added the councillor.
An €580 million allocation after the cyclone
To remedy the extensive damage caused by Cyclone Henry in January, €580 million has been allocated for the reconstruction of infrastructure and economic activities. “The challenge now is to turn this difficulty into an opportunity,- continued the councillor, -reaffirming that Sicily is alive and welcoming. I extend an invitation to everyone to visit Sardinia and Calabria as well, in a spirit of solidarity and collective revival.” Among Sicily's strengths, food and wine remain one of the most sought-after experiences, recognized throughout Europe for their quality and authenticity.
Film crews stay for months on the island
Film tourism is also strategic, transforming the island into an international showcase: productions such as “The White Lotus” and “The Leopard” attract film crews who stay for months, employ local workers and promote new destinations, creating direct and indirect economic benefits. This phenomenon also favours segments such as weddings, sports and set-jetting, consolidating Sicily's position in key markets like Germany, France and the United States through a targeted and coordinated strategy.
