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Public Sector Employment In Cyprus Sees Moderate Growth Amid Structural Reshuffle

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

Employment figures for Cyprus’ broad public sector reached 77,314 in the second quarter of 2025, according to new data released by the Statistical Service (Cystat). The comprehensive update highlights significant trends across government branches and publicly owned enterprises.

Steady Growth In Government Roles

Within the aggregate public sector, 72,275 individuals were employed by general government, and an additional 5,039 worked for publicly owned enterprises and companies. A closer look at the general government segment reveals separations of 55,208 in central government, 11,185 in non-profit organizations, and 5,882 in local authorities. Compared to the same quarter in 2024, there was an overall increase of 1,600 jobs, marking a 2.1% growth in public sector employment.

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Structural Reallocation And Local Authority Expansion

The central government added 969 positions—a 1.5% rise—while local authorities experienced a substantial surge with an increase of 1,295 jobs or 28.2%. This shift is closely linked to administrative changes following the establishment of district local government organizations (DLGOs) on July 1, 2024, which have assumed responsibilities for water and sewerage boards. Conversely, publicly owned enterprises and companies recorded a decline of 664 positions, reflecting an 11.6% reduction within that sector.

Sequential Quarterly Adjustments

When viewed quarterly, total employment in the broad public sector rose by 280 jobs (0.4% growth) from the first quarter of 2025. Specifically, local authorities continued their upward trajectory with a 5.4% increase (301 jobs), and publicly owned enterprises saw a modest gain of 77 positions (1.6%). In contrast, the central government experienced a slight contraction with a decline of 98 positions (0.1%).

These data points suggest that while the overall public sector is on a growth path, strategic reallocations—particularly the rise in local authority employment and restructuring of publicly owned enterprises—are reshaping the employment landscape in Cyprus.

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EU Tightens Steel Imports As Overcapacity Hits 721M Tonnes

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 14, 2026

Robust Regulatory Framework

Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, together with the European Parliament, reached a provisional agreement on measures addressing global steel overcapacity. The regulation targets trade diversion and excess supply while maintaining compliance with international trade rules. The framework also aims to preserve operational flexibility for downstream industries.

Safeguarding Employment And Environmental Commitments

Global steel overcapacity is projected to reach 721 million tonnes by 2027, compared with EU annual consumption levels. The measures are linked to the protection of around 2.5 million jobs. Policy direction also aligns with EU decarbonisation targets within the industrial sector.

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Enhanced Trade Controls And Supply Chain Traceability

The regulation introduces tariff-free quotas of 18.3 million tonnes annually. Imports exceeding thresholds will be subject to a 50% duty. Measures cover 30 steel product categories and will replace current safeguards expiring on June 30, 2026. A “melt and pour” requirement is included to improve supply chain traceability.

Diversifying Import Sources And Reducing Dependencies

Rules apply to imports from all countries, excluding European Economic Area members, which remain subject to traceability requirements. The framework also reduces reliance on specific external suppliers, including Russia. Michael Damianos, Energy Minister of Cyprus, said the steel sector remains important for economic activity and energy transition. Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s INTA Committee, said the measures address trade practices and market conditions.

Looking Ahead

The agreement introduces a revised tariff-rate quota system with import quotas reduced by approximately 47% compared with 2024. Limited carry-over flexibility will apply in the first year. The European Commission will review the measures in subsequent years. Formal adoption by the European Parliament and the Council is expected before implementation on July 1, 2026.