Sardinia, tourism on the rise: ‘A driver of growth for the island’

Tourism in Sardinia is on the rise. And it can ‘contribute to the island’s development’. This is the view of Federturismo Confindustria Sardegna Meridionale, in light of the Istat figures presented just a few days ago by the regional councillor for tourism.

“These figures clearly confirm that tourism is one of the main drivers of Sardinia’s economic growth,” the employers’ organisation emphasises. “The record figure of over 22 million visitor arrivals recorded in 2025 and the steady increase in arrivals demonstrate the island’s ability to attract Italian and international visitors and to strengthen its position amongst the most competitive destinations in the Mediterranean.”

According to the organisation’s representatives, these figures underscore the strategic importance of the sector – alongside manufacturing, the agri-food industry, energy and logistics – and form the basis on which to build the region’s economic future.

“Industry and tourism are not alternative sectors, but complementary ones. A stronger Sardinia from an industrial perspective also makes tourism more competitive,” emphasises Mario Cioffi, president of the hoteliers’ association at Confindustria Sardegna Meridionale, “whilst at the same time, modern, seasonally balanced and high-quality tourism generates new opportunities for the entire regional economy. This is the vision that Federturismo Confindustria Sardegna Meridionale will continue to promote in its dialogue with regional and national institutions to consolidate achievements and strengthen the competitiveness of tourism businesses.”

The association has also called on regional authorities to support new investment in the refurbishment of facilities, staff accommodation and the improvement of services across the entire tourism sector.