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IMF Boosts Cyprus Growth Forecast

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has upgraded its growth forecast for Cyprus, raising the 2024 projection from 2.7% (April estimate) to 3.3%, according to the October 2024 World Economic Outlook (WEO). For 2025, growth is also expected to increase to 3.1%, up from 2.9%. This places Cyprus among the top economies in the eurozone, with only Malta and Croatia expected to post higher growth rates at 5% and 3.4%, respectively. Cyprus’ Finance Ministry is even more optimistic, estimating 3.7% growth for 2024.

Inflation in Cyprus is forecasted to ease, with the IMF projecting a slight decrease to 2.2% in 2024 and 2% in 2025. This represents an improvement from the previous forecast of 2.3% for 2024. Unemployment is also expected to drop, with figures predicted to fall to 5.3% in 2024 (down from April’s 5.9% projection) and further to 5.1% in 2025.

On a less positive note, Cyprus’ current account deficit is expected to widen. The IMF predicts a deficit of -10.1% of GDP in 2024, compared to the -8.6% previously estimated, and -8.6% in 2025. The Cypriot government, however, has a more conservative forecast of -8.5% for 2024 and -7.6% for 2025.

Globally, the IMF forecasts steady growth of 3.2% for 2024 and 2025, with notable upgrades for the U.S. economy. U.S. growth is now expected to reach 2.8% in 2024, up from 2.7%, and 2.2% in 2025, revised from 1.9%. In contrast, Germany’s growth outlook has been downgraded, with zero growth expected in 2024, down from 0.2%, and a modest recovery to 0.8% in 2025.

This report highlights Cyprus’ strong economic recovery, buoyed by strategic fiscal policies, even as other global economies face slower growth.

Building Permits Surge In Value And Volume Amid Robust Market Activity

Strong Growth In Permits Reflects Market Confidence

The latest data released by the Statistical Service underscores a notable surge in the number and, more importantly, the value, area, and residential units approved under construction permits during January–October 2025. Compared to the previous year, the total number of permits rose by 9.0%, reaching 6,490 from 5,955 in the corresponding period of 2024.

Significant Increases In Permitted Value And Area

Growth was even more pronounced in financial and spatial indicators. The total value of approved permits rose by 27.7%, while the cumulative construction area expanded by 30.7%. The strongest acceleration was recorded in residential units, which climbed by 33.1%. This pattern suggests renewed investor activity and stable end-user demand, particularly in housing projects.

October 2025: A Snapshot Of Market Momentum

The activity in October 2025 alone was remarkable. During this month, 855 construction permits were issued, encompassing a total value of €447.6 million and covering an aggregate area of 356.2 thousand square meters. These permits are projected to facilitate the development of 1,950 new residential units, further propelling the sector’s expansion.

New Regulatory Framework Elevates Efficiency

The expansion in permits follows notable administrative reforms. Since 1 July 2024, responsibility for issuing building permits has shifted to Regional Government Bodies, while application and approval procedures have been digitized through the Ippodamos information system. The new framework is designed to reduce processing times, increase transparency, and standardize oversight across districts, contributing to smoother project initiation.

Implications for the Construction Sector

Overall, the data indicate a broad-based strengthening of construction activity during the first ten months of the year, with especially strong gains in project value and residential supply. For developers, suppliers, and financial institutions, these signals point to a market environment characterized by confidence and planning. At the macroeconomic level, continued expansion in construction is likely to support employment, related industries, and fiscal revenues, reinforcing its role as a key growth pillar.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
Aretilaw firm
Uol
eCredo

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