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Central Bank of Cyprus Issues Warning on Economic Risks

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 5, 2024

The Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) has issued a stark warning regarding potential economic risks, emphasising the necessity for vigilance and proactive measures to ensure economic stability. Governor Constantinos Herodotou, in his address, highlighted several key vulnerabilities that pose significant threats to the Cypriot economy.

Inflation Pressures

The CBC is particularly concerned about rising inflation rates. Persistent inflation can erode purchasing power and destabilise the economy. Governor Herodotou urged both policymakers and businesses to implement effective strategies to mitigate inflationary impacts, suggesting that a coordinated approach is essential to managing this risk.

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Real Estate Market Concerns

Another area of concern is the rapid growth in the real estate market. While growth can be a sign of a robust economy, unchecked expansion can lead to speculative investments and market bubbles. The CBC’s cautionary stance suggests that measures should be taken to ensure that real estate investments are sustainable and that market stability is maintained.

Banking Sector Stability

The stability of the banking sector remains a top priority for the CBC. Governor Herodotou emphasised the importance of stringent regulatory frameworks to ensure that financial institutions can withstand potential economic shocks. The CBC advocates for a resilient banking sector that can support the economy even during periods of uncertainty.

Strategic Recommendations

To counter these risks, the CBC recommends several strategic measures:

Enhancing Economic Diversification: Reducing reliance on a limited number of economic sectors can mitigate risk and promote stability.
Implementing Robust Financial Regulations: Ensuring that financial institutions adhere to strict regulatory standards is crucial for maintaining stability.
Fostering Sustainable Growth: Encouraging practices that promote long-term economic health over short-term gains is essential.

Governor Herodotou also stressed the importance of maintaining fiscal discipline. This involves managing public finances prudently to avoid excessive debt and ensuring that monetary policies are aligned with long-term economic objectives.

The CBC’s warning serves as a critical reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain economic stability amidst evolving global and local challenges. Stakeholders in Cyprus’s economy must heed these warnings and take concerted actions to safeguard the nation’s financial health. The proactive measures suggested by the CBC are aimed at fortifying the economy against potential risks and ensuring sustainable growth.

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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.

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.