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CPDA Advocates Direct State Grants for Green Home Upgrades Over Tax Exemption

Green Incentives: A Strategic Shift

The Cyprus Property Developers Association (CPDA) is urging the government to revise its approach to financing household green upgrades. Instead of the proposed €1,000 tax exemption per spouse or partner, CPDA recommends replacing it with direct state grants. According to the association, this measure would produce faster and more meaningful results in the transition toward more sustainable living environments.

Broader Access for a Sustainable Future

CPDA stresses that the subsidy should be independent of income or socio-economic criteria, cautioning that such restrictions could hinder participation and delay Cyprus’ progress toward achieving the EU’s “Fit for 55” climate targets. The association advocates for a scheme that supports the renovation of existing homes as well as new constructions built to modern environmental standards, ensuring equitable benefits for all property owners.

A Model Based on Proven International Success

Drawing on successful examples from Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands, CPDA proposes that aid be closely aligned with the actual costs of green investments, subject to a defined ceiling. This approach is intended to maintain proportionality and fairness while ensuring the efficient use of public funds. The initiative aims to invigorate both the construction and renovation sectors, delivering positive ripple effects throughout the broader Cypriot economy.

Context and Fiscal Reform

The association’s recommendations emerged during a public consultation on a major tax reform package spearheaded by the Finance Ministry. This comprehensive reform, which forms a key component of the president’s pre-election programme, is designed to foster a fair, efficient, and sustainable economic system by addressing rising fiscal pressures, widening inequality, and the need for new investments.

Ensuring Compliance and Economic Revival

In developing the reform package, the Ministry relied on an independent study by the University of Cyprus’ Economics Research Centre (CypERC) and input from international experts to ensure compliance with EU state aid rules. The package—encompassing amendments to income tax, defence contributions, capital gains, tax certification and collection, and stamp duties—is aimed at bolstering social justice, curbing tax evasion, and stimulating entrepreneurship while restoring public trust in the tax framework.

Cyprus Fuel Prices Expected To Rise As Oil Prices Increase

International Oil Market Dynamics

Fuel prices in Cyprus are expected to rise gradually in the coming weeks as international crude oil prices continue to increase. Recent reports show that heavy crude prices moved from about $93 per barrel to a peak of $117 before settling near $107, reflecting continued volatility in global energy markets.

Projected Retail Impact And Stage-Wise Price Adjustments

Sabbas Prokopiou, president of the Pan-Cypriot Fuel Stations Owners Association, said these international price movements are expected to gradually affect retail fuel prices in Cyprus. A recent increase of around two cents per litre has already been recorded. Additional price adjustments may follow in the coming weeks as international fuel costs pass through the supply chain and reach the retail market.

Geopolitical Tensions And Market Reactions

Geopolitical developments have also contributed to recent price movements. Concerns about potential regional conflict initially pushed crude prices higher. In a single trading session, prices reportedly rose by about $10 per barrel. More recently, attacks targeting oil storage facilities have added further pressure to international crude markets.

Strategic Outlook And Industry Insights

Prokopiou said further increases in fuel prices remain possible depending on developments in international oil markets. However, he noted that estimating the scale of retail price adjustments remains difficult during periods of geopolitical uncertainty. Similar market patterns were observed in 2022 following the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, when international crude prices rose sharply.

Market participants, including fuel importers and the Consumer Protection Service of the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry, continue to monitor developments in international energy markets.

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