In 2019 a significant growth of tourism sector in Kosovo was noted, as indicated by figures such as over 14% turnover growth rate equaling some €218 million, or an 8% growth in employment reaching to over 12,000 workers. 

However, the shock of 2020 global COVID-19 pandemic has directly affected all progress made. For example, during the total lockdown, accommodation entities were on average fully closed for around 100 days and restaurants for 84 days. It is estimated that the tourism sector turnover in 2020 has declined by around 50%, with losses calculated up to €110 million. 

This information derives from the findings of the third annual “Tourism Supply Side” report by the Promoting Private Sector Employment project. The report is based on a comprehensive screening of tourism enterprise in Kosovo. For 2019, a record sample of some 500 tourism SMEs were interviewed, including around 250 restaurants and over 170 accommodation entities. While the survey concerned the sector growth in 2019, the survey collected additional information to seek better understanding of the impact of COVID-19 in 2020. 

The annual “Tourism Supply Side” report that Promoting Private Sector Employment project produces to depict changes in the tourism sector, as one of the priority sectors of the project. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, tourism service providers, and other stakeholders when it comes to strategic planning processes and decision making in general.

Read full report here: https://bit.ly/3nNWdEY