Hopes for getting tourism back on track in Turkey after the COVID-19 pandemic have been dashed due tothe Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Every year, millions of Russians and Ukrainians holiday in Turkey; however, figures are expected to be much lower this year, with 30 percent decline in the industry expected.
With the coming tourism season, southern resorts are already feeling the effects of the war and ensuing sanctions on Russia, with around 70% cancelations.
Tourism in Turkey represented 10 percent of gross domestic product just before the pandemic, with around 4.7 million Russians and 2.1 million Ukrainians visiting Turkey.
The Association of Turkish Travel Agencies expected 7 million Russians and 2.5 million Ukrainians to visit this year; however, expectations are now much lower.
For Turkey’s southern resorts, the peak season for Russian tourists normally starts in early May.
Tags: Turkish tourism, The Association of Turkish Travel Agencies