Introduction

At the recent BusinessEurope Council of Presidents summit in Nicosia, President Nikos Christodoulides delivered a resolute address, stressing that a stronger, more competitive European Union is essential to achieving strategic autonomy.

Leadership And A Decisive Path Forward

With the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU scheduled to begin in January 2026, the president outlined a clear mandate: transition from prolonged debate to decisive action. He noted that over 70 percent of the upcoming agenda will focus on enhancing the union’s competitiveness—an area that has lagged on the global stage.

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Forging Partnership With The Business Community

In a series of high-level discussions, including a key exchange at the Presidential Palace, President Christodoulides underscored the indispensable role of Europe’s business community. He asserted that robust partnership frameworks are critical as the presidency assumes the mantle of leading the union through transformative periods.

Competitiveness And Strategic Autonomy In Tandem

Emphasizing the close nexus between economic competitiveness and strategic autonomy, the president warned that without a competitive edge, the EU cannot assert its position as a global strategic actor. He pointed to the lessons of recent geopolitical turbulence, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has starkly illustrated the risks of economic dependency.

Economic Resilience And Fiscal Discipline

Highlighting Cyprus’s own economic success, President Christodoulides cited impressive growth figures, low unemployment rates, and a restored ‘A’ investment-grade status as examples of resilient fiscal management. These benchmarks not only strengthen Cyprus’s position but also serve as a blueprint for driving the Union’s broader economic revival.

A Strategic Roadmap For Europe

Looking ahead, the Cyprus Presidency will prioritize regulatory simplification, enhance the Single Market, and advance key strategic trade agreements with global partners. With initiatives such as the forthcoming Commission’s Single Market Roadmap to 2028 and extensive Omnibus Simplification Packages, the path forward is both clear and ambitious.

President Christodoulides concluded with a call to unity, reminding all member states that the true value of the European project lies not in geographic size, but in sustained commitment and the relentless pursuit of excellence on the global stage.

Modernizing Public Payment Systems

Cyprus is set to transform its public payment infrastructure by discontinuing the acceptance of personal cheques for state payments starting January 1, 2026. This strategic move comes as the Treasury endeavors to establish a faster, more secure, and effective collection system that aligns with contemporary digital practices.

Addressing Long-Standing Inefficiencies

Officials have noted that traditional cheque processing has long been plagued by delays, inaccuracies, and rejections stemming from mundane errors or insufficient funds. Citizens often had to navigate repeated payment processes due to these inefficiencies, prompting a necessary shift towards streamlined digital solutions.

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Implementing Secure and Instant Solutions

In lieu of personal cheques, the government will facilitate payments through direct and secure methods. These include bank cards used at cash desks, online transactions, and bank transfers, with support for instant payments that clear within seconds. Although banker’s drafts will remain available temporarily, they too are slated for eventual discontinuation, ensuring that the nation’s public financial network evolves with global best practices.

Maintaining Cash Transactions

While the digital transformation continues, cash transactions up to €10,000 will persist as a viable option, providing flexibility for those who prefer traditional payment methods. This balanced approach underscores Cyprus’s commitment to modernize public services without alienating segments of the population still reliant on conventional banking tools.

A Broader Vision for Public Service Modernization

The initiative is part of a larger governmental strategy to enhance public service delivery and resource management. By transitioning away from outdated cheque systems, Cyprus not only simplifies the payment process for its citizens but also reinforces its dedication to efficiency and transparency within the public sector.

European employers’ organizations have converged in Cyprus for the BusinessEurope Council of Presidents (CoPres) conference, an event that underscores the increasing influence of key economic actors in shaping European policy. The meeting, held at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, marks a significant gathering where high-ranking representatives will discuss strategies vital to the evolution of the regional economic landscape.

Meeting Overview

Today, leaders of major European employers’ organizations will meet with President Nikos Christodoulidis at the Presidential Palace. The session, which will culminate in an official dinner attended by the President, is a testament to the collective commitment to address the challenges and priorities facing Europe today.

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Council Agenda

The conference agenda is comprehensive, focusing on several critical areas:

• The strategic priorities underpinning the forthcoming Cypriot Presidency;
• The European Union’s roadmap for a sustainable, innovative, and competitive economy;
• Strengthening international relations in an increasingly interconnected world.

Notable Leadership Influence

A further highlight of the event is the attendance of senior policymakers. Tomorrow’s session will include not only President Christodoulidis but also EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Kostas Kadis. Additionally, Georgios Pantelidis, President of the Federation of Employers & Manufacturers (OEV), reinforces Cyprus’s influence by serving as Vice President of BusinessEurope, whose President is the Swedish business leader Fredrik Persson.

This gathering reflects a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to addressing Europe’s economic challenges and opportunities, positioning Cyprus as a pivotal player in the broader European agenda.

The Association of Large Investment Projects has renewed its call for establishing a dedicated Deputy Ministry for Development and Competitiveness. In a statement to President Nikos Christodoulides, association president Andreas Demetriades emphasized the need for a coherent national strategy centered on healthy, sustainable development and well-defined incentives.

Driving Job Creation And Economic Resilience

Addressing stakeholders at the association’s general assembly, Demetriades asserted that large-scale projects not only create jobs but also strengthen the social fabric and secure Cyprus’ future. The deputy ministry would be tasked with bolstering competitiveness, attracting high-quality investments, and coordinating much-needed reforms—from streamlining licensing processes and digitalizing services to establishing a one-stop shop for investors.

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Accelerating Reforms And Simplifying Approvals

The proposed body would oversee targeted licensing for strategic projects, thereby accelerating the development process in measurable ways. This aligns with a broader vision to position Cyprus as a regional business hub, attracting investments in high-end healthcare, higher education, technology, IT, tourism, shipping, green energy, and modern infrastructure.

Showcasing A Portfolio Of Impactful Developments

Demetriades highlighted that the 16 association members manage the island’s largest developments, attracting consistent foreign interest with an €8 billion portfolio spanning marinas, casinos, golf courses, universities, medical centers, research parks, and expansive tourist projects. Such initiatives have not only upgraded Cyprus’ investment and tourism landscape but have also supported thousands of jobs and improved living standards.

Policy Initiatives And Institutional Enhancements

In discussing long-term priorities, Demetriades stressed the importance of continual improvements in the business environment. He cited the recent cost of living allowance (CoLA) agreement as a demonstration of institutional maturity among the state, employers, and unions—a success that reinforces stability and predictability. As Cyprus prepares to assume the EU Council Presidency, these policy improvements are critical for handling weighty European dossiers, including the multiannual financial framework, competitiveness, defense, and security.

Addressing Housing And Infrastructure Challenges

Despite the progress, significant challenges remain. Demetriades underscored the pressing need to address housing shortages and expand educational infrastructure. He recommended targeted incentives, such as increasing building coefficients in selected areas and employing VAT mechanisms for investments in rental properties, to meet the rising demand for affordable housing.

Energy Strategy, Schengen Accession And Local Governance

High energy costs demand a robust, long-term national strategy, which includes improving natural gas supply, accelerating storage system deployment, and constructing critical infrastructure to enhance security and sufficiency. Additionally, accession to the Schengen Area would expand Cyprus’ economic reach and enhance its credibility among international investors.

Collaboration To Overcome Institutional Hurdles

Speakers representing key institutions, including Andreas Tsouloftas conveying President Stavros Stavrou’s message and Constantinos Yiorkadjis from the Nicosia EOA, stressed the importance of multi-level cooperation. They outlined measures such as digitizing permit processes and creating dedicated development services to address longstanding obstacles like bureaucracy, slow licensing, and manpower shortages. Local authorities, especially in sectors like water supply and sewage management, play an essential role in facilitating development and mitigating infrastructure constraints.

A Pivotal Moment For Cyprus

Despite global uncertainty, the resilient Cypriot economy continues to attract quality foreign investment. As institutional reforms progress and strategic incentives are implemented, large-scale developments are poised to sustain and further elevate Cyprus’ competitive edge. Through an integrated approach and strong public-private collaboration, Cyprus is well-positioned to emerge as a pillar of stability, modern governance, and sustainable growth in the region.

EU farms produced an estimated 161.8 million tonnes of raw milk in 2024, a modest increase of 0.9 million tonnes compared to 2023. This figure builds on a decade of steady growth, with production rising by 12.1 million tonnes since 2014, when output was 149.7 million tonnes. According to Eurostat, the trend underlines the resilience and expanding capacity of the EU dairy industry.

Dairy Consumption And Product Diversification

Of the total raw milk output, approximately 150.8 million tonnes were directed to dairies, underpinning the production of a diverse range of fresh and processed dairy products. Notably, much of the milk is allocated to cheese and butter manufacturing. Specifically, 59.9 million tonnes of whole milk, assisted by an additional 17.0 million tonnes of skimmed milk, were transformed into 10.8 million tonnes of cheese. Similarly, 44.2 million tonnes of whole milk facilitated the production of 2.3 million tonnes of butter and other yellow products, generating 41.5 million tonnes of skimmed milk as a by-product.

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Leading National Contributors

Germany emerged as the EU’s largest producer of drinking milk, accountable for 18.8% of overall production and dominating the production of acidified milk products, butter, and cheese with respective shares of 27.1%, 20.6%, and 22.5%. Spain and France follow closely, with Spain contributing 15.2% and France 12.7% to the production of drinking milk. France also holds significant positions in the butter (17.2%) and cheese (17.8%) segments.

Niche Production And Strategic Specialization: The Case Of Cyprus

Cyprus remains a minor player within the EU dairy sector. Its modest agricultural base, constrained pastureland, and limited herd sizes yield relatively low production volumes—recording 56,310 tonnes for drinking milk, 12,440 tonnes for acidified milk products such as yoghurt, 0.050 tonnes for butter, and 42,550 tonnes for cheese. However, the island’s strategic focus on high-value cheese production, particularly halloumi, a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product, underscores its competitive niche in the market. With a high proportion of available milk being allocated to cheese, Cyprus exemplifies how specialization can drive export success, even amid constrained production capacities.

The global luxury sector is poised for modest growth next year, with forecasted sales increases in the 3% to 5% range following a period of stagnation. However, years of relentless price hikes are now threatening long‑term expansion by alienating both aspirational buyers and even the ultra‑affluent, according to insights from Bain & Company.

Industry Growth And Regional Dynamics

Bain’s analysis indicates that the future uplift will be fueled by steady momentum in the United States, resilient local demand in Europe and Japan, and a gradual recovery of trends in China. This multifaceted growth, however, is shadowed by a troubling trend of pricing strategies that are distancing a broad customer base.

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The Price Hike Challenge

Bain warns that the persistent price increases have not only priced out aspirational consumers but have also left high‐end clients feeling betrayed. Federica Levato, a partner at Bain, said, “You cannot target only the top customers. They are starting to feel betrayed by the industry’s escalating prices.” This sentiment comes as luxury brands attempt to rectify past missteps with new creative initiatives—an approach that Levato doubts will suffice if the underlying pricing issue remains unresolved.

The Impact On Customer Loyalty

The luxury customer base shrank from 400 million in 2022 to approximately 340 million in 2025, with forecasts predicting a further decline of 20 to 30 million clients. Even as big spenders now represent around 46-47% of the €358 billion personal luxury goods market, their spending has plateaued, indicating a broader consumer fatigue.

Navigating Excess Inventory

Another significant challenge for industry players is the mounting inventory. Stock-to-revenue ratios have increased by three to four percentage points compared to 2019. Levato suggests that luxury brands may need to leverage outlet channels and off‑price e‑commerce to clear excess product—a strategy complicated by concerns over brand image and strict EU sustainability regulations that prevent the destruction of unsold goods.

Future Forecast Amid Uncertainty

Geopolitical uncertainties, including fluctuating trade policies and economic questions in markets like China, add to the complexity of forecasting the industry’s trajectory. Notably, Kering CEO Luca de Meo has already signaled a need to reassess pricing and product strategies following years of aggressive increases. With luxury shares rallying—evidenced by the Stoxx Luxury 10 index, which recovered 19% from its April lows—the industry is at a critical juncture where rebalancing market appeal and sustainable growth remains paramount.

At the 4th Akel Economy Forum in Nicosia, leading policymakers and industry experts issued a decisive call for comprehensive reforms to address the mounting housing affordability crisis in Cyprus and across the European Union. Conversations centered on introducing tighter controls over property purchases by third-country nationals, accelerating licensing processes, and establishing a unified housing authority to ensure balanced market practices.

Addressing Housing Vulnerabilities

Discussions, framed under the theme ‘Mass Real Estate Purchase And Housing Crisis: Right Or Privilege?’, featured contributions from figures such as Akel MP Aristos Damianou, MEP Ilaria Salis, Constantinos Constanti of the Scientific And Technical Chamber (Etek), and Stelios Gavriil, President Of The Association Of Building Contractors (Oseok). Their analysis revealed that both national and European initiatives have thus far fallen short in arresting the relentless climb in property prices and rents, systematically excluding low- and middle-income households from the market.

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EU Policy And The Role Of Brussels

MEP Ilaria Salis observed that the demand pressures in Cyprus echo challenges seen in major Italian cities and other EU locales. She noted that while Brussels is poised to unveil an action plan by mid-December, there has been minimal consultation with the European Parliament—a gap that could undermine the robustness of future housing legislation. Salis warned that existing EU policies overly favor private interests, offering little support for rent regulation or the development of public and social housing.

Strategic Shifts In Housing Policy

Advocating for a paradigm shift, Salis emphasized the need to reconceptualize housing as a social right and curb the allure of disproportionate profits. She proposed policy measures that include:

• Implementing democratic and collective contracts that incorporate rent caps linked to income, ensuring housing costs do not exceed 30 percent of monthly earnings.
• Enforcing limits on short-term rentals to promote long-term affordability.
• Commencing sizable investments in public and social housing, with urban renewal projects featuring a mandated percentage of non-market units, partly funded by European resources.
• Institutionalizing citizen participation via community associations to directly shape housing policy, alongside establishing EU-wide standards to shield households from eviction.

Local Initiatives And Broader Economic Impact

Local governmental bodies also offered targeted proposals, ranging from restricting property sales to third-country nationals and repurposing vacant units, to streamlining planning permits. Etek introduced fiscal incentives such as reducing VAT to 5 percent for renovation projects, reforming the ‘renovate-to-rent’ scheme, and taxing idle land to incentivize development.

MP Aristos Damianou highlighted that Akel’s comprehensive housing policy package, currently embodied in two newly proposed bills, aims to enhance access to affordable housing as the government transitions away from unsustainable models like the now-defunct golden passport scheme. He argued that an open economy naturally recalibrates in response to emerging market opportunities, setting the stage for more socially balanced development.

A Decade Of Strategic Change

Industry leader Stelios Gavriil underscored the necessity of refining existing housing schemes to broaden beneficiary eligibility. He urged that financial institutions ease the path for young couples—especially regarding down-payment requirements for bank loans—and called for a forward-looking, ten-year national housing strategy.

In summary, the forum underscored the urgency for both local and EU-wide reforms, positioning housing not merely as a commodity but as an essential social right. As policymakers and market leaders align on these initiatives, the evolving landscape may well offer a blueprint for resolving the housing crises confronting many modern economies.

Cyprus and Israel are on the brink of sealing a landmark intergovernmental agreement for managing the Aphrodite-Isai gas field, a development announced by Energy Minister George Papanastasiou during the 13th Energy Symposium in Nicosia.

Diplomatic And Strategic Milestone

The final draft of the agreement, incorporating comments from the Cypriot side, was recently submitted to Israel. With both nations aiming to sign by year’s end, this deal is pivotal in governing gas extraction in the area encompassing the small portion of the Aphrodite field extending into the Isai region of Israel’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The accord further outlines a mechanism for compensating Israeli stakeholders, ensuring each party receives its due share.

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Enhanced Stability And Regional Opportunities

According to Minister Papanastasiou, the evolving energy landscape in Cyprus’ EEZ reflects significant progress over the past year. These developments not only bolster stability in the Eastern Mediterranean but also open up export pathways for natural gas to European markets. Beyond exports, future domestic consumption of these resources may also be feasible, further strengthening Cyprus’ energy security.

Infrastructure And Field Development

The government is laying the groundwork for robust infrastructure to support gas extraction from multiple locations within the EEZ. A key example is the Kronos field in Block 6, which is set to be the first developed project. Its proximity to the existing infrastructure of Egypt’s Zor field facilitates a connection to a submarine pipeline leading to Egypt, where the gas will be processed and ultimately liquefied for export.

Innovative Processing Models For Aphrodite

In contrast, the Aphrodite field is advancing towards maturity with a different development model. The managing company is designing a floating processing unit directly above the field, channeling gas straight to an offloading point near Port Said. This approach expedites the transmission of dry, high-quality gas to Egyptian facilities, aligning with strategic export and market diversification goals.

Economic Implications And Future Prospects

The agreement marks a significant step forward as Cyprus transitions to contracts that enable the direct commercial production of its gas reserves. Negotiations for the sale of natural gas from the Kronos field are underway, with financial terms expected to enhance the project’s long-term sustainability. Furthermore, despite the current absence of a domestic processing facility for natural gas, plans are under review to potentially convert LNG shipments from Damietta for use in Cyprus via the established Vassilikos infrastructure.

Additionally, a memorandum of understanding between Energean and Cyfield is under examination as a potential framework for importing Israeli-sourced gas into Cyprus via dedicated pipelines. This initiative, among others, underscores the multifaceted strategy to fully leverage the nation’s natural resource wealth and secure its energy future.

The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, recently detailed ambitious plans to enhance the island’s role in the energy sector through new electric interconnections with neighboring states at the 13th Energy Symposium.

Strategic Alliances And Regional Energy Security

In his address, President Christodoulides underscored Cyprus’ participation in the “3+1” mechanism alongside Greece and the United States, a move that solidifies the nation’s strategic ambition to contribute actively to energy solutions in the Eastern Mediterranean. By aligning its interests with regional powerhouses, Cyprus aims to serve as an alternative energy corridor to Europe, reinforcing the long-term security of energy supplies.

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Key Infrastructure And Future Export Initiatives

The President also highlighted key developments such as the anticipated natural gas export from Cypriot fields via the Kronos–Damietta infrastructure, with the first export projected for 2027. This milestone is set to propel Cyprus onto the European energy map, marking a significant evolution in the nation’s energy strategy. Furthermore, the planned electrification link with Greece—recently updated in consultation with the Greek Prime Minister—will serve as a critical conduit for integrating Cyprus with the European energy grid and ensuring enhanced supply security.

Expanding Energy Engagement Beyond Borders

President Christodoulides revealed burgeoning interest from major energy conglomerates in exploring additional blocks within Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone. Alongside these strategic investments, the President is set to visit Lebanon on November 26 to engage in dedicated discussions on energy planning—an initiative that not only elevates Cyprus’ international standing but also attracts vital foreign investment and regional collaborations.

Green Transition And Domestic Policy Initiatives

The administration is also accelerating its green transition by increasing the penetration of renewable energy sources. Significant investments are underway, including a €114 million upgrade of transmission and distribution networks. Pilot projects, such as the energy community in Tillyria, are being scaled with plans to extend similar initiatives nationally post-2026. Despite a 23% share in renewable energy, the government remains determined to harness Cyprus’ abundant solar potential to create a more competitive energy system while safeguarding vulnerable households.

A Unified Vision For Europe’s Energy Future

In an era where energy considerations underpin alliances and strategic decisions, Cyprus is resolving not only to further its interconnection projects but also to seamlessly integrate Eastern Mediterranean developments with Europe’s broader energy strategy. This approach addresses Europe’s enduring reliance on external energy sources and positions the region as a viable alternative energy route. With clear, stepwise initiatives, the government is committed to ensuring electricity adequacy and reducing costs—a grand challenge that they are determined to meet.

The President concluded by reiterating that a coherent, collaborative, and well-planned energy transition is imperative for the nation’s progress. By aligning technical prowess with strategic partnerships, Cyprus is set to secure its energy future and play an influential role on Europe’s energy stage.

Boeing maintained its competitive stance at the Dubai Airshow by securing a provisional order from flydubai for 75 of its 737 MAX jets. This decisive move came just one day after the long-standing customer selected 150 Airbus A321neo aircraft in an apparent shift, underscoring the high stakes in the battle for regional market supremacy.

Flexible Fleet Solutions For Evolving Demands

The new deal, still under negotiation, grants flydubai the flexibility to choose among three 737 MAX variants – the MAX 8, MAX 9, or the pending MAX 10 – based on its future operational requirements. Despite CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith’s heartfelt declaration of Boeing as his “home,” the allure of Airbus’s additional range and capacity proved a compelling factor in the broader competitive landscape.

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Emirates And The Strategic Expansion Of Airbus

Meanwhile, Emirates continued to reinforce its strategic fleet expansion with a fresh order of eight Airbus A350-900 jets. Earlier in the airshow, attention had been drawn to its significant $38 billion commitment for Boeing’s 777X, marking a dual narrative of strength and competition. Emirates president Tim Clark accounted that while the airline appreciates the smaller, more efficient A350-900 — now part of its fleet for over a year — the larger A350-1000 remains under scrutiny due to performance concerns in harsh Gulf climates.

Freighter And Regional Market Activities

The Dubai Airshow further highlighted the enduring appetite for cargo aircraft. Contracts such as Azerbaijan’s Silk Way West Airlines’ order for additional A350F freighters and Libya’s Buraq Air’s provisional purchase of 10 A320neo passenger jets illustrate a broader industry trend toward fleet diversification amid global trade uncertainties.

Conclusion

As both Boeing and Airbus maneuver to capture more market share, the unfolding orders at the Dubai Airshow symbolize the intensity of the global aviation competition. Strategic fleet choices and flexible ordering options now play a pivotal role in shaping airline successes in an increasingly dynamic industry landscape.