Breaking news

Real Activity Growth In Cyprus Projected To Gather Momentum

Cyprus is poised for a significant economic upswing, with projections indicating a robust acceleration in real activity growth. This optimistic forecast is detailed in a recent report by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC), which underscores the nation’s economic resilience and potential for future expansion.

According to the CBC, real activity growth in Cyprus is expected to gain substantial momentum, driven by a confluence of favourable factors. These include a strong performance in key sectors such as tourism, construction, and professional services, coupled with strategic governmental policies aimed at fostering economic stability and growth.

The tourism sector, a cornerstone of the Cypriot economy, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and recovery post-pandemic. The influx of tourists, particularly from Europe and the Middle East, has bolstered the sector, leading to increased revenue and job creation. This resurgence is expected to continue, supported by ongoing investments in infrastructure and marketing initiatives aimed at enhancing Cyprus’s appeal as a premier tourist destination.

In the construction sector, significant projects, both private and public, are set to drive growth. The development of residential and commercial properties, alongside infrastructure projects such as road networks and utility upgrades, is anticipated to stimulate economic activity. Additionally, the government’s focus on sustainable development and green building practices is likely to attract further investment and innovation in this sector.

Professional services, including finance, legal, and consulting, remain a critical component of Cyprus’s economic landscape. The island’s favourable business environment, strategic location, and robust regulatory framework have positioned it as a hub for international business. The continued growth of this sector is expected to contribute significantly to the overall economic momentum.

The CBC report also highlights the positive impact of governmental policies on economic growth. Measures such as fiscal consolidation, structural reforms, and investment in digital transformation have enhanced economic resilience and competitiveness. These policies have not only stabilized the economy but also created a conducive environment for sustainable growth.

Governor Constantinos Herodotou of the Central Bank of Cyprus expressed confidence in the country’s economic prospects, stating, “The projected growth in real activity is a testament to the resilience and dynamism of the Cypriot economy. Our strategic policies and the robust performance of key sectors are driving this positive outlook. We remain committed to fostering an environment that supports sustainable economic growth and development.”However, the report also cautions against potential risks that could temper this optimistic outlook. External factors such as geopolitical tensions, global economic slowdowns, and fluctuating energy prices could pose challenges. Domestically, issues such as labour market mismatches and the need for continued structural reforms must be addressed to ensure sustained growth.

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
eCredo
Aretilaw firm
Uol

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter