The Malta Tourism Authority said in a statement it is pleased to note the excellent results achieved in inbound tourism to the Maltese Islands, as published by the National Statistics Office.

The MTA's CEO, Paul Bugeja remarked that in October, increases were registered in total inbound visitors (12%), total nights spent (6.2%) and total tourism expenditure (10.2%). Moreoever, inbound tourist trips from January to October surpassed 2 million (+15.7%) while total nights spent reached almost 14.7 million nights (+10.2%). Total tourism expenditure for the period January-October surpassed €1.7bn (+13.2%). Both figures were reached between January and December in 2016, rather than between January and October.

Bugeja also pointed out that the issue of seasonality is being addressed. As can be witnessed both by the latest statistics as well as through first-hand feedback from industry stakeholders, the winter months are no longer prohibitive.

Furthermore, the demographic mix that is setting foot on our islands is very positive. The MTA is happy to note that the younger generation is also choosing Malta as their destination of choice, which complements the vision that the Authority has for a modern, vibrant destination with a unique blend of history and culture. Bugeja noted that the average spend per bed night has also registered positve increases, mainly due to an increased spent in accommodation and other expenditure.

The Minister responsible for Tourism Konrad Mizzi spoke positively of the two-million tourists' milestone and emphasised the importance of the initiatives and investment that the local tourism industry in partnership with government and the Malta Tourism Authority are undertaking.

Dr Mizzi said that prospects for 2018, when Valletta will be European Capital of Culture, are also good.