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2027 A Pivotal Year for Cyprus’ First Natural Gas Exports, Says Energy Minister

Cyprus is set to reach a major milestone in 2027, as it prepares to transport its first natural gas, Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry George Papanastasiou said on Thursday.

Following a meeting with trade union SEK, Papanastasiou highlighted the significance of the upcoming agreement with Egypt, which President Nikos Christodoulides will personally underscore during his visit to the neighboring country.

“The signing of agreements that will commercialize Cyprus’ natural gas is a crucial step forward,” the minister stated. He noted that while discussions have long focused on exploration and reserves, the next and most critical phase—exporting gas to international markets—is now underway.

“These agreements will define how the gas reaches global markets. This process involves Egypt as the host country, the companies that have invested in the deposits, and, of course, the Republic of Cyprus, which is eager to bring its natural gas to the market,” he explained.

SEK Union Secretary General Andreas Matsas emphasized that the deal also holds strategic importance for the European Union in its push for energy independence.

Papanastasiou further stressed that revenues from natural gas and other investments will ultimately flow back into Cyprus’ economy, reinforcing the country’s financial stability and growth.

Cyprus 2025 State Budget: A Detailed Analysis Of Revenue And Expenditure Implementation

Budget Overview

Cyprus recorded an 87% revenue implementation rate and a 92% expenditure implementation rate in the 2025 state budget, according to the latest Treasury report. Total revenue reached €10.20 billion, compared with €10.81 billion in 2024, while total expenditure amounted to €11.99 billion versus €12.42 billion a year earlier.

Revenue Trends And Tax Contributions

The decline in revenue was mainly linked to a €1.07 billion drop in loan withdrawals. This was partly offset by stronger tax collection. Direct taxes increased by €0.37 billion, while indirect taxes rose by €0.17 billion.

VAT revenue grew by 4% to €3.16 billion, reflecting an increase of €0.08 billion. Direct taxes rose by 6% to €3.79 billion, supported by higher personal and corporate income tax receipts.

Expenditure Dynamics And Social Investments

Overall expenditure declined slightly, largely due to a €0.84 billion reduction in loan repayments. At the same time, social benefits increased by 5% to €2.02 billion, mainly driven by an €0.08 billion rise in healthcare-related spending.

Transfers and grants rose 11% to €1.93 billion, reflecting higher contributions to the Social Insurance Fund and increased support for municipalities. Operating expenses fell by 3% to €1.12 billion, while payroll, pensions, and gratuities remained stable at €3.52 billion.

Capital Expenditure And Co-Financed Projects

Capital expenditure reached €469.3 million. Key allocations included road infrastructure (€97.3 million) and construction projects (€77.4 million), alongside investments in water systems, government buildings, and school expansions.

Co-financed projects implemented €336.3 million. Funding covered initiatives such as subsidies for childcare and nutrition programs for children under four, as well as residential energy-efficiency upgrades.

Comparative Analysis And Development Expenditure

The average state budget expenditure implementation rate over the past decade stands at 91%. Development expenditure implementation reached 81% in 2025, exceeding the ten-year average of 69%.

The data indicates continued fiscal discipline combined with increased execution of development projects and targeted social spending.

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