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Government Legislative Proposals Aim To Safeguard National Real Estate Markets

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 11, 2025

In response to growing concerns over the unregulated influx of foreign buyers, legislators have introduced three new proposals designed to restrict the acquisition of real estate by non-nationals. Recent data revealing that 27% of properties and lands have been sold to non-European buyers has spurred lawmakers into action. These measures aim not only to protect the housing rights of lower and middle-income residents but also to preserve national security and economic stability.

Targeting Unbridled Foreign Acquisitions

Two proposals submitted by members of ACEL specifically target the unchecked property market driven by foreign purchases. The legislative changes will amend current laws governing the acquisition of real estate by non-nationals, closing loopholes that have allowed indirect property purchases without prior governmental approval. By broadening the definition of organizations controlled by foreign interests, the proposals extend regulatory oversight to include any entity where ultimate control is vested in a non-national as per existing anti-money laundering statutes.

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Enhanced Ministerial Oversight And Streamlined Exceptions

The proposals assign the Ministerial Council the responsibility of defining strict parameters, conditions, and criteria for real estate transactions involving foreign parties. Each application submitted will be meticulously examined and decided by the council. Furthermore, an exception is provided whereby approval is not required for natural persons acquiring properties such as an apartment or a house (up to 200 square meters), a retail space of similar size, or an office of up to 300 square meters. These pragmatic amendments underscore the government’s commitment to balancing regulatory control with market pragmatism.

Prevention Of Indirect Ownership And Strategic Asset Limits

In an effort to eliminate potential circumvention, the proposals explicitly prohibit both direct and indirect acquisition of properties through corporate structures or third-party intermediaries. Restrictions also apply to properties located near critical infrastructure, such as ports, airports, beaches, and military installations. These initiatives ensure that national interests take precedence over speculative investment.

Limitations On Multiple Acquisitions By Foreign Nationals

A collaborative proposal by representatives from DISY, DIKO, and DIPA confines foreign nationals to the purchase of only one residence or apartment per parcel of land. Additionally, strict conditions are imposed on legal entities, mandating that at least 51% of the issued share capital, voting rights, or control must belong to citizens of the Republic or other EU/EFTA member states, or to a company established under the jurisdiction of such a state. The acquisition of agricultural or forest lands by foreigners is categorically banned, emphasizing a protective stance over critical domestic resources.

Revamping The Land Registry Procedures

Another proposal from ACEL revises the laws governing the registration and transfer of properties, thereby enhancing the oversight of transactions involving foreign buyers. The director of the Land Registry Department will be barred from processing any real estate transfer or registration that falls under the new restrictive provisions. This change is anticipated to curb indirect property acquisitions through companies, ensuring greater transparency regarding the true ownership of legal entities involved in domestic real estate transactions.

Conclusion

These comprehensive legislative reforms reflect a strategic effort by the government to secure the national real estate market against unbridled foreign investments. By instituting stringent controls and clearly defined exceptions, lawmakers seek to balance the interests of domestic economic security with the realities of a globalized property market.

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EU Mercosur Agreement Sparks Political Battle Over Cyprus Agriculture

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 16, 2026

A political battleground emerged in the Parliamentary Agriculture Committee’s latest session, as fierce debates broke out over the controversial trade deal between the European Union and Latin American nations under the Mercosur framework. Lawmakers voiced deep concerns regarding food safety and the prospects for local agriculture, particularly following the high-profile absence of the Minister of Trade.

Minister Absence And Parliamentary Integrity

Committee Chair Giannakis Gabriel expressed strong disapproval over the Minister’s no-show, noting that the extraordinary session was scheduled at midday at the Minister’s own request. “His absence undermines the authority of the parliament,” Mr. Gabriel declared. Given that the Minister is not abroad, it was expected that he would be present to clarify why Cyprus supported an agreement widely criticized as disadvantaging the agricultural sector.

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Trade Deal Under Scrutiny

In his address, A.C.E.L General Secretary Stefanos Stefanos described the pact as a “dangerous agreement” imposed under the pressure of multinational conglomerates. He especially critiqued the contrasting sanitary standards whereby, while the EU bans our farmers from using certain pesticides and antibiotics, the Mercosur deal appears to allow imports produced with these very substances. His remarks underscored the possibility of double standards in safety measures and the potential long-term impacts on Cypriot agriculture.

Economic And Safety Concerns

Legislators questioned the basis of government studies that justified backing the agreement, even as Cyprus’ agricultural sustainability is increasingly threatened by water scarcity and soaring production costs. Representatives from various political factions pointed to insufficient controls over import volumes and tariff structures. For example, Christos Orphanidis (DIKO) demanded precise data on imports from Latin America, citing honey as a case in point, and pressed for clear explanations regarding the tariff regime.

Legal And Health Implications

Questions about legal authority were raised by Elias Myriantounos (EDEK), who inquired whether parliament can reject or amend the agreement should economic studies forecast negative outcomes. Environmental advocates, like Haralambos Theopemptou of the Movement of Ecologists, emphasized the need to safeguard traditional products such as halloumi, highlighting concerns over how rigorous food safety controls will be maintained. Meanwhile, Linos Papagiannis (ELAM) cautioned against unfair competition, drawing parallels with challenges posed by lower-standard goods from occupied territories.

Protecting Local Interests

The overarching message from lawmakers was clear: the future of Cyprus’ farming community and the well-being of its citizens should not be sacrificed at the altar of commercial trade. Agricultural organizations have voiced alarm over the importation of goods potentially contaminated with banned substances, the risk of market distortion by low-quality products, and the lack of localized impact studies. They argue that the agreement is biased in favor of select corporate interests, ultimately undermining consumer safety and the livelihood of European farmers.

As this debate continues to unfold, the outcome of these deliberations will be pivotal in determining not only trade policy but also the long-term economic and food security landscape of Cyprus.