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Cyprus Sees 10% Annual Decline In Registered Unemployed Persons In July

The latest data from Cyprus reveals a notable 10% annual decline in registered unemployed persons for July, signalling a positive trend in the nation’s labour market. This reduction reflects the ongoing recovery and resilience of the Cypriot economy, which has been navigating the complexities of post-pandemic challenges. The decrease in unemployment underscores the effectiveness of strategic economic policies and the adaptability of the workforce.

The decline in unemployment figures is a testament to the robust measures implemented by the government to stimulate job creation and economic growth. Various initiatives, including incentives for businesses to hire and retain employees, targeted support for key industries, and investment in training and education programs, have contributed significantly to this positive outcome. These efforts have not only provided immediate relief but also laid the groundwork for long-term economic stability.

A crucial factor behind this improvement is the recovery of the tourism sector, a cornerstone of the Cypriot economy. As global travel restrictions have eased, there has been a resurgence in tourist arrivals, boosting employment in hospitality, retail, and related services. This uptick in tourism has had a multiplier effect, creating job opportunities and stimulating local businesses, thereby reducing the overall unemployment rate.

Additionally, the construction sector has shown remarkable resilience, driven by both public infrastructure projects and private investments. The demand for residential and commercial properties has remained strong, further supporting job creation in construction and allied industries. Government-backed infrastructure initiatives have also played a pivotal role in sustaining employment levels, demonstrating the importance of strategic public investment in economic recovery.

The technology and services sectors have also contributed to the decline in unemployment. With a growing emphasis on digital transformation, many companies in Cyprus have expanded their operations, leading to increased demand for skilled professionals in IT, finance, and business services. The government’s focus on fostering a conducive environment for startups and tech firms has further propelled job creation in these high-growth areas.

However, while the reduction in unemployment is a promising sign, the CBC Governor’s call for vigilance remains pertinent. It is essential to address potential challenges that could impact the labour market, such as global economic uncertainties, inflationary pressures, and potential disruptions from geopolitical tensions. Maintaining a proactive stance in monitoring and mitigating these risks is crucial to sustaining the positive employment trend.

Moreover, ensuring that the benefits of economic recovery are widely distributed across all segments of society is imperative. Policies aimed at promoting inclusive growth, such as supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enhancing workforce skills, and providing social protection for vulnerable groups, are vital for creating a resilient and equitable labour market.

Cyprus Income Distribution 2024: An In-Depth Breakdown of Economic Classes

New findings from the Cyprus Statistical Service offer a comprehensive analysis of the nation’s income stratification in 2024. The report, titled Population By Income Class, provides critical insights into the proportions of the population that fall within the middle, upper, and lower income brackets, as well as those at risk of poverty.

Income Distribution Overview

The data for 2024 show that 64.6% of the population falls within the middle income class – a modest increase from 63% in 2011. However, it is noteworthy that the range for this class begins at a comparatively low threshold of €15,501. Meanwhile, 27.8% of the population continues to reside in the lower income bracket (a figure largely unchanged from 27.7% in 2011), with nearly 14.6% of these individuals identified as at risk of poverty. The upper income class accounted for 7.6% of the population, a slight decline from 9.1% in 2011.

Income Brackets And Their Thresholds

According to the report, the median equivalent disposable national income reached €20,666 in 2024. The upper limit of the lower income class was established at €15,500, and the threshold for poverty risk was set at €12,400. The middle income category spans from €15,501 to €41,332, while any household earning over €41,333 is classified in the upper income class. The median equivalents for each group were reported at €12,271 for the lower, €23,517 for the middle, and €51,316 for the upper income classes.

Methodological Insights And Comparative Findings

Employing the methodology recommended by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the report defines the middle income class as households earning between 75% and 200% of the national median income. In contrast, incomes exceeding 200% of the median classify households as upper income, while those earning below 75% fall into the lower income category.

Detailed Findings Across Income Segments

  • Upper Income Class: Comprising 73,055 individuals (7.6% of the population), this group had a median equivalent disposable income of €51,136. Notably, the share of individuals in this category has contracted since 2011.
  • Upper Middle Income Segment: This subgroup includes 112,694 people (11.7% of the population) with a median income of €34,961. Combined with the upper income class, they represent 185,749 individuals.
  • Middle Income Group: Encompassing 30.3% of the population (approximately 294,624 individuals), this segment reports a median disposable income of €24,975.
  • Lower Middle And Lower Income Classes: The lower middle income category includes 22.2% of the population (211,768 individuals) with a median income of €17,800, while the lower income class accounts for 27.8% (267,557 individuals) with a median income of €12,271.

Payment Behaviors And Economic Implications

The report also examines how income levels influence repayment behavior for primary residence loans or rental payments. Historically, households in the lower income class have experienced the greatest delays. In 2024, 27.0% of those in the lower income bracket were late on payments—a significant improvement from 34.6% in 2011. For the middle income class, late payments were observed in 9.9% of cases, down from 21.4% in 2011. Among the upper income class, only 3% experienced delays, compared to 9.9% previously.

This detailed analysis underscores shifts in income distribution and repayment behavior across Cyprus, reflecting broader economic trends that are critical for policymakers and investors to consider as they navigate the evolving financial landscape.

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