HMUat the Center of Global Tourism Research: The 13th Sino-European International Tourism Conference – ICTF 2026 Concludes in Heraklion
[1m 20s read]
The 13th Sino European International Tourism Conference – “Island & Coastal Tourism Futures 2026” (ICTF 2026) concluded on Wednesday, 23 September, reaffirming the role of the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) as a leading academic hub for research on island and coastal tourism. This year’s conference highlighted the expanding international footprint of the Department of Business Administration and Tourism, which continues to shape global dialogue on sustainable tourism development and destination futures.
Two high level panels attracted strong interest from academics, industry leaders and institutional stakeholders. The first panel, dedicated to bridging academia and industry, focused on “Sustainable Resources Management in Island and Coastal Destinations.” Speakers included Prof. Jaruwan (Nikki) Daengbuppha (Naresuan University, Thailand), Dr. Yolanda Koulouri (Hellenic Centre for Marine Research), Andreas Moniakis (Cretan Holidays), Manos Borboudakis (Metaxa Hospitality Group) and Minas Papadakis (Heraklion Port Authority). The discussion explored the challenges and opportunities of resource management in island destinations, emphasizing the need for integrated scientific and market driven approaches.
The second panel, “Taste of Place: Gastronomy as a Driver of Tourist Experience and Island Competitiveness,” examined the role of gastronomy as a strategic pillar for destination differentiation and sustainable growth. Participants included Spyros Balantinos, Deputy Regional Governor of Crete for Tourism–Primary Sector Synergies, Dr. Michalis Katharakis (Mediterranean Agronutritional Institute), Nikolaos Miliarakis (Heraklion Development Agency) and Prof. Ji Wen (Jinan University, China). The panel highlighted how local food culture enhances visitor experience, strengthens regional identity and contributes to long term competitiveness for island destinations.
ICTF 2026 is part of the broader framework of the Sino Greek Research Institute for Tourism and Heritage, a collaborative initiative between HMU’s Department of Business Administration and Tourism and Ningbo University. Established in 2018, the partnership has evolved into a robust academic bridge between Greece and China, fostering joint research projects, knowledge exchange and a shared vision for the future of island and coastal tourism.
The successful completion of ICTF 2026 underscores HMU’s pivotal role in advancing global tourism research. Through strong international collaborations, interdisciplinary engagement and active participation from industry stakeholders, the University continues to position Crete as a center of excellence in tourism, innovation and academic leadership.
