The president of the Association of Maritime Agents La Spezia, Andrea Fontana, expressed "surprise and concern" for the news relating to complications in the work of Construction of the new cruise pier in the port of La Spezia and he stressed that "the city and the port cannot afford to lose such a crucial resource for the local economy and tourism" ( of the 11th October 2024).

"After years of commitment and initiatives - observed Fontana - the cruise terminal has reached a strategic position as passenger stopover in Italy. The terminal is not just a point transit for thousands of cruise passengers every year, but represents also a source of economic income for the city. The cruise passengers contribute to local trade, catering and to hospitality, generating a positive induced activity that spreads in the entire city economy. The strategic importance of of the cruise terminal of La Spezia, the only one in Italy to have as its members of the three main cruise companies: Costa, MSC and Royal Caribbean. This collaboration allows us to offer a range of services and offers of international level, positioning the terminal as a reference point in the cruise industry both nationally and internationally".

Noting that "any delays or problems in the works could have negative consequences on the entire city and on the port sector", the president of the association of La Spezia shipping agents concluded by expressing the hope "that solutions are identified as soon as possible effective and efficient to ensure that La Spezia maintains and strengthens its important role in the cruise sector".