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Navigating the Uncertainties: Cyprus Amidst A Potential Global Trade War

by News Editor

April 13, 2025

Cyprus, a nation reliant on global trade, faces uncertain times with the possibility of a trade war ignited by the United States. While analysts predict repercussions, the extent and timing remain ambiguous, echoing past financial upheavals.

Remember 2008, when financial leaders underestimated the global crisis? Expert Alex Apostolides warns against repeating history, urging vigilance as trade tensions escalate.
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As a small, open economy, Cyprus could be negatively impacted by tariffs, much like other EU nations. Apostolides emphasizes the importance of aligning with EU strategies to mitigate adverse effects.

Beyond direct trade impacts, diminished capital flows might influence financial markets. Despite being a financial hub, Cyprus may see decreased attractiveness for new enterprises amidst these changing global dynamics.

History reminds us of 1932 when UK tariffs exacerbated Cyprus’ recession, sparking industrial growth as a silver lining.

Michalis Persianis of the Fiscal Council cautions on secondary impacts, such as shifting trade routes and currency fluctuations affecting sectors like tourism and ICT. These could, however, stabilize housing prices.

Investors might gravitate towards more liquid sovereign bonds, causing Cypriot bond yields to rise. Although not catastrophic, increased servicing costs for national debt underscore the need for fiscal discipline. Cyprus’ modest but essential bond issuance strategy is crucial to maintain its market presence.

Could a declining dollar against the euro reduce import costs for Cyprus? As oil prices drop, there’s potential for cheaper electricity—a welcome relief amid economic strains.

The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) is considering advance oil purchases to leverage current low prices. Hedging could safeguard against future price hikes, echoing practices from the COVID-19 era.

For an in-depth understanding of Cyprus’ economic maneuvers during global shifts, read more about potential U.S. investments in Cyprus.

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Call for Reform: Cyprus Faces New Challenges with Emerging Tobacco Products

by News Editor

May 31, 2025

In the face of a burgeoning variety of tobacco products, existing smoking laws in Cyprus are struggling to keep pace, as highlighted by Christos Minas, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (AAEK). On World No-Tobacco Day, there was a push for legislative reforms to comprehensively cover all tobacco forms, including non-nicotine alternatives.

Addressing Rising Trends with Effective Policies

Minas emphasized the surge in popularity of e-cigarettes and flavored products, particularly among the youth. The proposed legal updates aim to enhance enforcement efficiency against these emerging trends.

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In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, the AAEK has established the first set of national guidelines for smoking cessation in Cyprus, crafting prevention and treatment strategies based on robust scientific evidence.

Educating Youth and Public Awareness Initiatives

Efforts are underway to raise awareness, with informative materials distributed to secondary schools across Cyprus. A public event in Nicosia highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment, providing carbon monoxide testing and expert advice on new tobacco products.

Recent data from the Cyprus general population survey 2023 indicates that 38% of smokers have used e-cigarettes recently, and the smoking initiation age remains at 18.

A Glimpse into Youth Smoking Patterns

According to the latest European school survey, 14% of Cypriot students aged 15-16 reported smoking traditional cigarettes last month. Although this rate is declining, Cyprus still ranks high in Europe for e-cigarette and hookah use among students.

The concern is global, with WHO reports showing over 37 million children aged 13-15 engage in tobacco use, driven by aggressive marketing in loosely regulated environments.

The urgency for reform is clear: before these trends solidify, proactive measures are necessary to protect future generations from potentially hazardous habits.