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Cypriots Prefer Contactless Payments Amid Digital Shift

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 5, 2024

A recent study highlights a significant shift in Cypriots’ payment preferences, with a marked increase in contactless payments. This trend, driven by convenience and security, underscores the growing digitalisation of financial transactions in Cyprus.

Contactless payments have become the preferred method for many Cypriots, especially for everyday transactions like retail purchases and dining. The convenience of tapping a card or smartphone and the reduced physical contact, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, are key factors.

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Cypriot banks have facilitated this transition by upgrading payment infrastructure and promoting contactless benefits. Many now offer contactless-enabled cards as standard, and there has been a rise in contactless payment terminals across the island. Enhanced security features, such as encryption and tokenisation, reduce fraud risks, adding to their appeal.

Digital wallets and mobile payment solutions like Apple Pay and Google Pay have further driven adoption. These platforms allow quick, secure payments via smartphones, resonating with tech-savvy consumers.

This shift reflects broader trends in digitalisation and financial innovation in Cyprus. As consumers seek more convenient and efficient services, businesses offering contactless payment options are likely to see increased satisfaction and loyalty.

However, ensuring accessibility for all, including the elderly and less tech-savvy, is essential. Financial institutions and businesses must provide education and support to help all consumers benefit from digital payments.

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Call for Reform: Cyprus Faces New Challenges with Emerging Tobacco Products

by News Editor

May 31, 2025

In the face of a burgeoning variety of tobacco products, existing smoking laws in Cyprus are struggling to keep pace, as highlighted by Christos Minas, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (AAEK). On World No-Tobacco Day, there was a push for legislative reforms to comprehensively cover all tobacco forms, including non-nicotine alternatives.

Addressing Rising Trends with Effective Policies

Minas emphasized the surge in popularity of e-cigarettes and flavored products, particularly among the youth. The proposed legal updates aim to enhance enforcement efficiency against these emerging trends.

In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, the AAEK has established the first set of national guidelines for smoking cessation in Cyprus, crafting prevention and treatment strategies based on robust scientific evidence.

Educating Youth and Public Awareness Initiatives

Efforts are underway to raise awareness, with informative materials distributed to secondary schools across Cyprus. A public event in Nicosia highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment, providing carbon monoxide testing and expert advice on new tobacco products.

Recent data from the Cyprus general population survey 2023 indicates that 38% of smokers have used e-cigarettes recently, and the smoking initiation age remains at 18.

A Glimpse into Youth Smoking Patterns

According to the latest European school survey, 14% of Cypriot students aged 15-16 reported smoking traditional cigarettes last month. Although this rate is declining, Cyprus still ranks high in Europe for e-cigarette and hookah use among students.

The concern is global, with WHO reports showing over 37 million children aged 13-15 engage in tobacco use, driven by aggressive marketing in loosely regulated environments.

The urgency for reform is clear: before these trends solidify, proactive measures are necessary to protect future generations from potentially hazardous habits.