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Forestry College To Reopen After A Decade: Revitalising Environmental Education

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 18, 2024

After a decade-long hiatus, the Cyprus Forestry College is set to reopen in January 2025, with its ‘Higher Diploma in Forestry’ programme resuming in September 2025. This development follows approval from the Council of Ministers, as announced by Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou. The reopening aims to address the understaffing of the Forestry Department and enhance operational readiness, particularly in combating forest fires.

The programme, a three-year course certified by the Cyprus Agency of Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Higher Education (CYQAA), will not only strengthen the Forestry Department’s staffing but also broaden its educational offerings. New programmes will be introduced for NGOs, communities, and citizens, focusing on environmental and nature-related issues. This initiative is expected to foster greater environmental awareness and engagement across various sectors.

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Minister Panayiotou highlighted the importance of the college in preserving Cyprus’s forests and enhancing the department’s capacity. The enriched educational programmes will also provide valuable training opportunities for government services, existing staff, and the broader public.

The reopening of the Cyprus Forestry College represents a significant step towards reinforcing the country’s commitment to environmental conservation and education. As Cyprus continues to face environmental challenges, the college’s revival is poised to play a crucial role in equipping future generations with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect and manage the nation’s natural resources.

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Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

Investigation Initiated Over Strategic Acquisition

The Competition Protection Authority has commenced a thorough investigation into the acquisition of ExxonMobil Cyprus Limited’s share capital by Petrolina Holdings Public Ltd through Med Energywise Ltd. This inquiry was formally initiated following a session held on 10 September 2025, after an in-depth review of the pertinent report by the Authority’s Service.

Concerns Over Market Compatibility

Authorities have expressed serious concerns regarding the compatibility of the transaction with established competitive practices. The review indicates that the acquisition may affect several critical petroleum markets, both horizontally and vertically, thereby raising the potential for adverse impacts on market dynamics.

Horizontal Market Dynamics

On the horizontal front, potential effects have been identified in the import market for petroleum products, as well as in both wholesale and retail distribution channels of these products. The consolidation is believed to increase the risk of price rises and coordinated actions, given the direct competitive proximity between Petrolina and ExxonMobil.

Vertical and Adjacent Market Implications

Vertical aspects of the merger are also under close scrutiny. The new entity could restrict competitors’ access to critical infrastructure such as storage facilities, supply channels, and customer bases. These restrictions could further affect the onshore distribution of fuels, the wholesale market for lubricants, and specialized technical services connected with fuel station operations.

Local Market Considerations

Particular attention is being paid to the potential concentration in the retail fuel market. The investigation suggests that a reduced competitive landscape within a four-kilometer radius of the companies’ fuel stations could lead to diminished local competition, adversely impacting consumer prices and options.

Next Steps and Industry Impact

The Competition Protection Authority, which reached a unanimous decision to pursue a full investigation, remains open to submissions from parties that might be affected by this transaction, as mandated by current legislation. A final decision is expected within four months upon receipt of all necessary evidence, potentially setting a significant precedent for future market consolidation cases in the energy sector.