Breaking news

Unveiling the Paphos Marina: A Landmark Multimillion-Euro Development

The long-awaited construction of the Paphos Marina is finally stepping into reality, set to transform Cyprus’s coastline with a blend of residential, commercial, and maritime excellence.The Ministry of Tourism is poised to initiate the tendering phase, inviting bids for this ambitious project on April 2, 2025, as announced in their official Brief report.

Strategically designed to include a full-scale Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer concession, the marina will host 1,000 vessels, with 650 sea berths and 350 on land for maintenance and storage. Located in Kissonerga, this expansive 155,000 square-meter facility will not only boost Cyprus’s maritime sector but also open official entry pathways to the country.

The bid process comprises two crucial phases: Expression of Interest, followed by the Invitation to Tender, with pre-selected candidates submitting comprehensive proposals.

Amid economic stakeholder input gathered by January 22, 2025, the goal is clear: attract the right investors and lock in advantageous concession terms for Cyprus. Additionally, the revamped infrastructure will offer luxury accommodations under long-term leases and modern administrative facilities.

This €400 million development, initially envisioned in 1990, promises to strengthen local tourism with state-of-the-art docking facilities, residential areas, and hotel accommodations. Business experts in Paphos continue to closely monitor the process, ensuring milestones are met to avert further delays.

Exciting times are ahead for maritime tourism as the final contract award is anticipated in early 2026, echoing a significant leap forward for Paphos Marina’s enduring vision.

EU E-Commerce VAT Systems Generate €257.9 Million Revenue for Cyprus in 2024

Robust Revenue Growth Through Streamlined VAT Collection

Cyprus has demonstrated a significant fiscal boost in 2024 with €257.9 million generated from the European Union’s e-commerce VAT systems, according to Tax Commissioner Sotiris Markides. This impressive performance underscores the effectiveness of the One Stop Shop (OSS) and Import One Stop Shop (IOSS) frameworks in simplifying cross-border tax compliance.

Simplified Procedures for EU and Non-EU Businesses

The OSS system allows Cyprus-registered businesses to streamline VAT declaration and payment on sales to consumers in other EU countries. Companies simply register on the local OSS platform, apply the consumer’s VAT rate, aggregate their submissions quarterly or monthly, and remit a single consolidated payment. Subsequently, Cyprus allocates the appropriate share to each respective EU country. This efficient process extends to non-EU sellers as well, who can have their intra-EU distance sales managed under the Union Scheme.

Breakdown of VAT Revenue Streams

Last year’s declarations under the various schemes illustrate the system’s broad reach: €217.9 million was collected via the Union Scheme, €36.9 million through the Non-Union Scheme, and €3.1 million via the Import Scheme. While the Union Scheme caters to both EU and non-EU sellers engaging in distance sales, the Non-Union Scheme specifically accommodates non-EU firms delivering services to EU consumers. Furthermore, the Import Scheme targets goods valued at less than €150 that are imported from outside the EU.

Implications and Broader Impact

Implemented in July 2021 as an evolution from the more limited MOSS system, these reforms have not only consolidated tax collection through an expansive OSS but also integrated the IOSS for low-value imports. By designating certain online marketplaces as “deemed suppliers,” the new framework ensures that VAT collection is both efficient and equitable. Across the EU, these mechanisms have generated over €33 billion in VAT revenues in 2024, reflecting a successful effort to simplify tax compliance, reduce administrative burdens, and promote fair taxation across the bloc.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter