Record Low Unemployment Spurs Economic Confidence

Cyprus has reached an economic milestone as its unemployment rate fell to 3.7 percent in April 2025, marking an impressive 27.5 percent decrease from the previous year. This achievement, the sharpest decline among EU nations, positions Cyprus third-lowest within the Eurozone. Employment surged by 16,400, bringing the total number of employed individuals to 493,272 while the unemployed pool contracted significantly from 29,102 to 26,161. Eurostat data underscores the nation’s robust recovery, highlighting its economic resilience in a challenging global landscape.

Intensifying Competition For Human Capital

However, this success has precipitated a new challenge. As the labour pool tightens, businesses, particularly in tourism-centric locales and sectors such as retail, construction, hospitality, and financial services, are facing mounting difficulties in sourcing qualified personnel. This labour market dynamic is evidenced by a significant drop in the number of registered unemployed individuals—from 29,102 to just 8,118—a reflection of the growing scarcity of available talent.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Retail Sector Redefines Recruitment Strategies

The retail industry, notably supermarkets, now finds itself embroiled in a dual battle: competing for consumer spending while simultaneously vying for scarce talent. What was once viewed as an entry-level position has upwardly evolved into a competitive career opportunity. In response, leading chains are recalibrating their employment packages to include enhanced salaries, improved working conditions, and benefits such as a 14th salary. A notable case is that of a Greek-owned supermarket chain in Cyprus which has become a preferred employer by integrating public sector-like incentives into its compensation structure.

Human Capital As A Strategic Cornerstone

The shift in the labour market has empowered employees, granting them increased bargaining power. Recognizing that talent retention is more cost-effective than recurrent hiring and training, businesses are channeling investments into cultivating a vibrant workplace culture, robust employee development frameworks, and long-term incentive schemes. This strategic focus on human capital is emerging as a critical differentiator in an era where workforce stability underpins sustainable growth.

Adapting To A New Economic Reality

The transition from a surplus of labour to acute scarcity is reshaping Cyprus’ economic landscape. For retail executives and business leaders, the imperative is clear: innovate not just in product strategy but also in the cultivation of workforce excellence. In today’s competitive environment, the employer brand is proving to be as vital as the consumer brand, underscoring the role of strategic human capital management in driving long-term success.

Created with the support of Dream Play, the Wildfire Aid Project is dedicated to raising awareness about wildfires and providing effective response strategies.

Comprehensive Damage Assessment

The Scientific Technical Chamber of Cyprus (Etek) has completed its evaluation and submitted detailed damage estimates to the Ministry of Interior following the large wildfire on July 23, 2025, in the mountainous area of Limassol. The overall restoration cost is estimated at approximately 40 million euros.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Methodical Evaluation And Key Metrics

Etek reviewed around 760 requests, with 650 cases falling under its jurisdiction. The analysis reveals that roughly half of these requests involved complete destruction, with an average restoration cost of 115,000 euros per structure. Additionally, about 220 cases reported minor damage with a mean cost of 3,700 euros, while nearly 100 instances were classified as moderately damaged, each incurring an approximate cost of 30,000 euros.

Robust Methodology And Transparent Process

The damage assessments were conducted using a proprietary mass valuation methodology developed by Etek. This method incorporates a detailed categorization of damage levels along with current cost estimates per square meter. The findings were gradually submitted to stakeholders beginning in early August, with final decisions pending Ministry approval; affected parties retain the right to appeal.

Leadership And Industrial Collaboration

ETEK President Konstantinos Konstantis emphasized that the engineering professionals demonstrated exceptional readiness and reliability during the crisis, delivering scientifically backed assessments through swift and transparent procedures. The Chamber extended its gratitude to the professional engineering organizations and all experts who contributed to the damage evaluation process.

Greek retail giant Jumbo has reported a net profit of €117.18 million for the first half of 2025, underscoring the resilience of its business model in a challenging global market. Despite facing persistent supply chain delays, escalating transport costs, inflationary pressures, and tariff disputes, the company continues to post an 8% sales increase compared to the same period last year.

Strong Financials and Strategic Growth

The group’s sales reached €497.28 million with a gross profit margin of 53.86%, a slight decline from 55.27% in the previous year due in part to an increased share of lower-margin wholesale transactions with franchise partners. Meanwhile, Jumbo’s EBITDA stood at €165.36 million, nearly matching the previous period’s performance. Excluding a one-time insurance compensation benefit received in 2024, EBITDA showed a notable growth of 7.05% over last year’s results, with margins maintained above 33%.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Expansion and Market Diversification

Jumbo is strategically positioning itself for continued expansion. With the current operation of 89 stores across Greece, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania, the company has mapped out an aggressive growth trajectory. Plans include the opening of two new hyperstores in Cyprus over the next five years, alongside targeted acquisitions and the development of new retail outlets in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. These expansion efforts are expected to bolster the group’s market presence and support sustaining its organic growth rate of 8% annually.

Embracing Digital Transformation and Operational Excellence

Identifying the importance of digital transformation, Jumbo is making systematic investments in enhancing its online store presence across all operating markets while simultaneously upgrading its cybersecurity, artificial intelligence tools, and ERP systems. These initiatives aim to improve customer experience, optimize decision-making processes, and drive operational efficiency. Additionally, a significant investment of over €60 million in two new distribution centers will further underpin the company’s logistical capabilities in the medium term.

Robust Balance Sheet and Shareholder Returns

The retail leader maintains a strong liquidity position, with cash and cash equivalents surpassing its loan and lease liabilities by €309.79 million as of June 30, 2025. This financial stability, supported by a successful share buyback programme, reflects Jumbo’s commitment to delivering dividends and value to its shareholder partners, even as it navigates a complex international environment.

As the Christmas trading period approaches, all eyes will be on Jumbo’s performance, which is expected to serve as a key indicator of whether the group can sustain its positive momentum in the coming months. With measured expansion and continued investments in both physical and digital capabilities, Jumbo sets a strong example of strategic resilience in today’s volatile retail landscape.

Emerging From Losses

Lordos Hotels has delivered a significant financial turnaround in the first half of 2025, reporting a net profit of €605,800 compared to a loss of €236,800 in the same period last year. This shift underscores a robust recovery strategy and renewed investor confidence.

Impressive Earnings For Shareholders

Profits attributable to shareholders soared to €438,300 from €73,900 in the counterpart period of 2024, reflecting strategic operational improvements and enhanced management oversight during challenging market conditions.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Revenue and Profit Growth

Group revenues experienced an impressive 39% increase, reaching €10.9 million from €7.8 million. The resurgence was bolstered by the reopening of the Lordos Beach Hotel, which had undergone extensive renovations earlier in the year. Furthermore, gross profit climbed by 58% to €4.7 million, underlining the organization’s effective cost management and operational efficiency.

Operational and Financial Efficiency

Despite a 35% rise in administrative expenses to €3.5 million, the company mitigated cost pressures through a slight reduction in financial expenses, which decreased by 1.1% to €261,400. These metrics provide a clear picture of the company’s disciplined approach to balancing growth with cost control.

Optimistic Outlook

Buoyed by current data and favorable market forecasts, Lordos Hotels anticipates that its financial performance for the full year 2025 will surpass that of 2024. The positive trajectory marks a critical inflection point for the hospitality group as it positions itself for further success in a competitive sector.

Government Under Scrutiny Over Social Exclusions

The House Labor Committee has renewed its call for a comprehensive revision of the child benefit legislation, urging both the government and the Sub-Ministry of Welfare to reform the existing framework. This initiative follows concerns voiced by the Child Rights Protection Inspector, who highlighted key flaws in the current system. Specifically, the residency requirement confined to designated zones in the Republic of Cyprus is effectively excluding many families from receiving critical social benefits.

Inadequate Policies Under Fire

Committee Chair and AKEL MP Andreas Kavkaliás criticized the prevailing legal structure, asserting that it fosters social exclusion by denying families access to benefits closely tied to child welfare—ranging from tuition support to various service discounts. According to Kavkaliás, social policies should focus on the needs of children rather than penalizing families based on the duration of their residence in the country.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Pressure Mounts For Immediate Legislative Amendments

In a decisive move, members of the committee have pressed the government for swift and meaningful legislative changes. Lawmakers have also signaled their readiness to submit a formal legislative proposal should there be an inadequate official response.

Political Divides Emerge

Notably, dissent within the political spectrum has surfaced. ELAM MP Sotiris Ioannou argued that the current benefits system unfairly favors non-nationals such as foreigners and Turkish-Cypriots, cautioning that this approach could inflate costs and ultimately diminish the benefits available for Cypriot citizens. In response, his party is preparing to file a proposal that would limit benefits exclusively to Cypriot nationals.

Addressing Injustices For Returning Cypriots

Adding to the debate, MP Andreas Apostolou condemned what he described as a severe injustice against Cypriots repatriating from non-European nations. Apostolou has secured a meeting with officials from the benefit service and has committed to presenting a legislative proposal by October. His initiative aims to ensure that returning Cypriot families receive child benefit payments from the very first day of their arrival.

Created with the support of Dream Play, the Wildfire Aid Project is dedicated to raising awareness about wildfires and providing effective response strategies.

Investigation Reveals Neglected Infrastructure As Wildfire Catalyst

Greek authorities have identified a familiar and preventable trigger behind a recent catastrophic fire near the Athens Riviera. An investigation revealed that a loose power cable, showing clear signs of oxidation and poor maintenance, had sparked a blaze that rapidly consumed 16 square kilometers of land adjacent to popular tourist beaches.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Faulty Energy Networks: A Systemic Risk

Preliminary data from the fire brigade underscores a broader issue: out of 41 major wildfires investigated this summer, 15 have been linked to the nation’s aging electricity infrastructure. This accounts for over 51,000 acres of charred land. The reliance on an underfunded and deteriorating power network, aggravated by climate pressures, has emerged as the leading ignition source—surpassing other accusations of arson or negligence.

Legacy Underinvestment And The Cost Of Inaction

Officials attribute the vulnerability to significant underinvestment during Greece’s prolonged debt crisis between 2009 and 2018. Deputy Energy Minister Nikos Tsafos recently noted in parliament that years of deferred maintenance have created a critical gap—one that now demands extensive remedial action. While the public power distributor HEDNO highlights increased spending on maintenance initiatives and upgrades, experts warn that relocating or burying aging cables from high-risk areas is a logistical challenge that will take decades to fully address.

Calls For Accountability And Strategic Infrastructure Overhaul

Local leaders are growing impatient. The mayor of coastal communities affected by the August blaze has vowed legal action against HEDNO, pointing to a recurring pattern of neglect. Academics and industry experts alike emphasize the need for proactive measures. With thousands of utility poles and cables installed decades ago, many now lie in fire-prone zones—a situation that not only endangers lives but also burdens the state with escalating restoration costs.

Looking Ahead

The recent wildfires are a stark reminder that climate change and outdated infrastructure can combine to yield devastating consequences. As Greece navigates the path towards rebuilding and upgrading its power grid, the challenges of balancing immediate safety concerns with long-term strategic investments remain at the forefront of policy discussions.

The Cypriot government is now assessing its strategic options after the European Commission issued a repayment demand. Energy Minister George Papanastasiou announced on Thursday that Cyprus must return €67.2 million from a total of €73 million allocated in grants for the Vasiliko liquefied natural gas terminal project. The minister clarified that funds amounting to €5.8 million, spent on activities predating the grant awards, remain unaffected by the demand.

EU Fund Repayment Demand

The repayment notice, issued by the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Executive Agency (Cinea), follows earlier communications from the Commission. Initially, back in July of the previous year, the Commission had demanded repayment of the bulk of the funds, a figure that has been slightly reduced in the most recent correspondence. The stated demand cites possible irregularities during the evaluation phase of the tender process for the project, implicating several international consortium members including companies from the China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co and Metron Energy Applications SA.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Government Response and Legal Consultation

Following the latest letter from Cinea, the Cypriot government responded with a detailed submission that was ultimately dismissed, leading to the reiterated demand. Minister Papanastasiou emphasized that legal experts are now reviewing the issue, with consultations involving specialized English legal advisors expected shortly. The government is considering a range of appeals, which might include approaches to the European Ombudsman or bringing the matter before the Court of Justice of the European Union. Notably, despite any pending legal actions, the government is obligated to deposit the €67.2 million by November 6 and later seek reimbursement if their appeals succeed.

Project Challenges and Technical Concerns

The broader context of this development includes significant operational and technical issues at the Vasiliko LNG terminal project. Originally launched in 2019, the project has faced delays and technical complexities, notably with aspects of the floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) Prometheas, currently undergoing certification in Malaysia. Questions over design and material standards have also surfaced, stalling progress at the project’s pier and contributing to prolonged delays.

Outlook and Future Implications

Despite the controversies, Minister Papanastasiou remains confident in the viability of the Vasiliko project, suggesting that once key assets such as the FSRU are operational, the remaining infrastructure can be completed to facilitate gasification and conventional power generation. The situation also underscores the broader challenges faced by governments managing EU-funded projects, particularly as rigorous compliance and oversight demand meticulous transparency and legal precision.

As Cyprus navigates these complex administrative and legal waters, the unfolding developments will have significant implications not only for national energy strategy but also for future engagements with EU funding mechanisms.

Overview And Strategic Vision

The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment has launched the second consecutive year of its Measure 1 initiative in the Akamas region. This program is designed to bolster landowners, protect the natural habitat, and promote sustainable development across key agricultural zones.

Program Details And Financial Incentives

Under Measure 1, eligible landowners and businesses will have access to an annual financial incentive of up to €6,600 per beneficiary, providing compensation aligned with the Local Akamas Plan. With a total budget of €25 million allocated over the five-year period from 2024 to 2028, the initiative will distribute funds through the Coordinating Office in Akamas.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

The subsidy, calculated at €600 per hectare (or €60 per decare), is structured around rental rates for agricultural land. It rewards contributions to the preservation of local landscapes and biodiversity. While the program facilitates the continuation of agricultural activities, it mandates the maintenance of natural vegetation and prohibits any alterations or the erection of barriers that could disrupt the local environment.

Eligibility And Application Process

Participants must control land parcels within the confines of the Local Akamas Plan, covering a total of 93,460 decares across protection, agricultural, and livestock zones. Applications, available exclusively via the platform at www.support-akamas.com, will be accepted from October 1 to October 31, 2025. Both individuals and companies are eligible to apply, with a streamlined process that integrates automatic verification of land ownership via a validated CYlogin account.

For further assistance, stakeholders can contact the office at 22408952 or via email at support-akamas@moa.gov.cy.

Long-Term Impact And Community Benefits

The Ministry emphasizes that the continuation of this measure not only addresses a longstanding challenge but also reinforces the local community and ensures the preservation of Akamas’ natural wealth. By embedding sustainability and environmental stewardship into its core, the initiative serves as a model of integrated rural development and regional stability.

Strategic Financial Agreements Propel Innovation

Cyprus has taken a decisive leap in bolstering its research and development capabilities with two strategic financing agreements totaling €55 million. In a ceremony held at the Finance Ministry in Nicosia, Finance Minister Makis Keravnos, European Investment Bank (EIB) Vice President Kyriacos Kakouris, and CING Chief Executive Leonidas Phylactou underscored the power of enduring partnerships. The agreements, which include €5 million for the construction of a new CING research building and €50 million for the Thalia 2021–2027 programme, highlight a shared commitment to national development and sustainable growth.

Boosting Research Infrastructure and Advanced Care

The first agreement, infusing an additional €5 million into the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING), raises the total EIB support for the institute to €31 million. This initiative, underpinned by a state guarantee and supplementary grant adjustments, will finance the construction of a new building designed to house pioneering research and development projects. As Finance Minister Keravnos noted, this investment is poised to enhance the nation’s research capacity and elevate Cyprus’ performance in global biomedical indicators. Kakouris highlighted the tangible benefits of the project, including advanced patient care and enriched opportunities for scientific research.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Driving Economic Growth Through Cohesion

The second agreement earmarks €50 million for the Thalia 2021–2027 programme—a cornerstone of the EU cohesion policy in Cyprus. This initiative is forecast to contribute a 5.9% increase in the country’s GDP and generate approximately 8,500 jobs by 2029. Vice President Kakouris emphasized the transformative nature of projects under the Thalia programme, which span from energy management and digital public services to modernizing educational and research infrastructures. These investments are central to the government’s mission to foster a smarter, greener, and more equitable Cyprus.

Strengthening International Ties and Future Prospects

During the ceremony, Minister Keravnos praised the longstanding relationship between Cyprus and the EIB, built on shared values and mutual trust. He also acknowledged Vice President Kakouris’ contributions, noting that his efforts have not only benefitted Cyprus but have also set a precedent for representation by small states at the European Investment Bank. Additionally, CING’s expansion will soon welcome six new research teams, further cementing the country’s position as a hub for biomedical innovation, job creation, and international scientific collaboration.

Conclusion: A Blueprint for Resilient Growth

This dual-faceted investment marks a significant milestone for Cyprus as it cultivates a resilient and sustainable future. With enhanced research infrastructure, robust economic growth, and a commitment to public well-being, Cyprus is poised to become a leading centre for innovation and development in the region.

Overview Of The Payment Commitment

The Republic of Cyprus has affirmed its intention to pay the €25 million installment to Greece’s independent transmission system operator, Admie, contingent upon the complete implementation of the Great Sea Interconnector project. Energy Minister George Papanastasiou clarified that the project must be executed in its entirety, noting that the construction of the cables alone does not fulfill the payment criteria.

Conditional Payment Structure And Project Implementation

Speaking to a national broadcaster, Minister Papanastasiou emphasized that while the government is committed to honoring its contractual obligations through five annual payments of €25 million, this commitment is linked to Admie’s equally binding duty to advance the project. The payment structure is designed to secure a stable income for Admie— a major shareholder with a 51 percent stake in the project— until the interconnector becomes profitable. “An obligation cannot only rest on the payer,” he stated, underscoring the need for a balanced commitment from both parties.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Pricing Mechanism And Financial Concerns

Minister Papanastasiou also discussed the necessity of finalizing the pricing mechanism to ensure that the €25 million payment is promptly available upon the decision to proceed. However, he stressed that releasing funds before the project is fully implemented would be premature. A lack of progress on the interconnector and divergent views on funding sources have led to substantial disagreements between Cyprus and Greece. The initial plan to finance payments using funds from the European Union’s emissions trading system was critiqued on the grounds of potential conflicts with EU state aid rules.

Strategic Importance And International Endorsement

Both Cyprus and Greece remain publicly committed to the strategic importance of the interconnector, which aims to interlink the countries’ electricity grids along with that of Israel. Recent joint statements by President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis have reinforced this commitment, with backing from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. Despite these high-level affirmations, domestic concerns regarding the project’s feasibility persist, supported by studies suggesting unsustainability at this stage.

Investigative Oversight And Public Assurance

Adding to the complex narrative, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation into the interconnector project. Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis has refuted allegations involving his family, firmly stating that no judicial inquiry concerns his relatives. The minister reiterated that all project participants must meet their obligations without shifting undue responsibility to the other party.

Conclusion

The unfolding dialogue between Cyprus and Greece over the Great Sea Interconnector underscores the broader challenges inherent in multinational infrastructure projects. Both nations have signaled an unwavering commitment to the strategic project, yet financial disbursements remain closely tied to demonstrable progress on the ground. As the project moves forward, industry stakeholders will be closely monitoring its evolution, balancing strategic benefits against the pragmatic realities of execution and governance.