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New Incentives for Cypriots Returning Home: Tax Breaks and Housing Highlights

The President of Cyprus, Nicos Christodoulides, has turned his focus to crucial housing issues and the introduction of exciting incentives aimed at bringing back Cypriots working abroad. During a recent cabinet meeting, Christodoulides highlighted ongoing initiatives, emphasizing that housing consistently tops the agenda. Over the past two years, seven new housing plans have been launched, capturing the interest of younger citizens—a move the government wholeheartedly supports.

Enhancing Housing Accessibility

The housing strategy remains adaptive, with continuous evaluations and improvements. Recently, the cabinet adjusted income criteria for plans managed by the Cyprus Land Development Corporation (KOAG), broadening access to these housing solutions and amplifying opportunities for home purchase or rental.

From Brain Drain to Brain Gain: Cyprus Welcomes Its Diaspora

In a strategic pivot, the government aims to transform the ‘brain drain’ into a ‘brain gain’ by enticing Cypriots back to their roots. President Christodoulides unfolded plans for a groundbreaking meeting in London on May 21, aimed at attracting expatriate Cypriots and international entrepreneurs alike.

Irresistible Incentives

Highlighting the alluring incentives, the President disclosed offers including a 25% tax exemption on initial income for new hires, with the tax-free threshold raised from €8,550 to €25,000 annually. These offers target individuals who have worked abroad for at least seven years post-graduation.

Such moves are set to inspire significant interest from the Cypriot diaspora and are poised to deliver positive outcomes, according to President Christodoulides.

Stay informed about Cyprus’s dynamic housing strategies and economic updates by visiting our coverage on Cyprus’ Economy Growth.

Evel Elects New President As Maria Theocharous Takes Over For 2026–2029 Term

Maria Theocharous has been elected president of the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Evel), taking over from Yiannis Tsouloftas for a three-year term covering 2026–2029. Theocharous previously served as the chamber’s vice-president for tourism.

The leadership transition marks a new chapter for one of Cyprus’ main regional business organisations, with the new board set to represent the district’s key economic sectors.

New Leadership Emphasises Cooperation

The chamber’s annual meeting brought together government, business and local authority representatives, including Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister Michael Damianos, Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) president Stavros Stavrou, Limassol district local government organisation president Yiannis Tsouloftas and Limassol mayor Yiannis Armeftis.

Speakers highlighted the importance of closer cooperation between public authorities and businesses in supporting Limassol’s economic development.

Representatives of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) also congratulated Theocharous on her election and thanked the outgoing president for his cooperation. The CSC described Evel as a longstanding partner, noting the chamber’s contribution to Limassol’s business development over more than six decades.

Tsouloftas Reviews Six Years As President

In his final address, Tsouloftas reviewed the chamber’s work between 2020 and 2026, highlighting its advocacy for major infrastructure projects and efforts to address development challenges across the district.

He also outlined initiatives to remove obstacles facing local businesses, accelerate development plans and improve the conditions for economic activity.

Tsouloftas will remain involved as immediate past president, providing continuity during the transition.

New Board Covers Key Business Sectors

The new board includes representatives responsible for the chamber’s main portfolios:

  • Ilikos Charalambous, vice-president for commerce
  • Vasos Demetriades, vice-president for industry
  • Christos Nicolaou, vice-president for services
  • Nicolas Agiomamitis, vice-president for tourism
  • Ilias Theodorou, vice-president for finance
  • Demosthenes Mavrellis, vice-president for innovation and technology
  • Ilias Neocleous, honorary secretary

Other board members are Minos Agathocleous, Marios Antoniou, George Demetriou, Anastasios Kounoudis, Marios Constantinou, Xanthos Nemptsas, Antonis Pappas, Charalambos Pattichis, Chrysis Petousis, Farah Shammas, Andreas Tsouloftas and Kyriacos Hadjiathanasiou.

Costas Ioannides, Agathi Katsi, Anna Petraki, Filippos Filis and Tonis Hadjiloucas have been appointed members by distinction. The chamber also highlighted the growing participation of women in business leadership and decision-making.

Chamber Recognises Longstanding Contributions

The annual meeting also recognised businesses and individuals for their contributions, including members who have maintained continuous membership for 50 years.

Tributes were paid to three former contributors to the chamber, Tonis Antoniou, Dimi Mavropoulos and Andreas Laou, in recognition of their service.

Under Theocharous’ leadership, Evel begins its 2026–2029 term with a board covering commerce, industry, services, tourism, finance and innovation. Its priorities include continuing to represent Limassol businesses and advocating for the investment and cooperation needed to support the district’s economic growth.

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