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Cyprus Construction Sector Embraces Modernisation With New Electromechanical Standards

The Cyprus construction industry is poised for a significant transformation following the introduction of new regulations reforming the institutional framework for electromechanical installations in buildings. This long-awaited update aims to enhance safety, quality, and energy efficiency across the sector.

Modernisation Of Standards And Safety Protocols

The newly published reforms address enduring challenges in the design, implementation, and oversight of electromechanical systems. The Scientific and Technical Chamber (Etek) heralds this development as a pivotal upgrade, promising more rigorous building controls, improved safety standards, and robust protection for citizens.

Comprehensive Studies And Expanded Regulation

Under the updated framework, all applications for a building permit submitted after March 11 must now include comprehensive studies covering not only heating, air conditioning, and domestic hot water systems but also additional specialised technical systems. One of the most notable changes is the removal of exemptions for single-family homes, signaling a broadening of the regulatory scope to encompass all modern residential developments.

Enhanced Oversight And Certification Standards

The reforms introduce mandatory supervision and inspection of electromechanical installations by the design engineer. Building owners are now required to appoint the design engineer as a supervisor during construction, with subsequent certification by both a mechanical and an electrical engineer upon completion. Additionally, the establishment of an Etek register for design and supervising engineers will come into effect in July 2028. This measure, which includes compulsory professional indemnity insurance and enhanced training protocols, is designed to fortify standards of professionalism and accountability among engineers.

Building A Sustainable Future

These innovative changes represent a decisive step towards a safer and more sustainable built environment in Cyprus. Continuous collaboration with the interior ministry underscores the commitment to implementing these reforms smoothly across the construction sector, setting a benchmark for quality and energy efficiency in future projects.

Cyprus And Greece Outline Joint Tourism Plans For Summer 2026

Strategic Partnership Enhances Tourism Prospects

The Cyprus Tourism Authority (EOT Cyprus) presented proposals for summer 2026 focused on strengthening tourism cooperation between Cyprus and Greece, with joint efforts aimed at attracting visitors from long-haul markets.

Greece: The Top Destination For Cypriot Travelers

At an event on April 28, Athena Spakouri, Director of EOT Cyprus, said Greece is expected to remain the main travel destination for Cypriot residents, with plans extending beyond established locations to include lesser-known regions. This approach reflects a broader effort to diversify travel options while maintaining strong demand between the two countries.

Complementary Destinations, Unified Vision

Building on this, Spakouri noted that Cyprus and Greece offer complementary tourism experiences rather than competing directly. Joint programmes are therefore being positioned to attract visitors from markets such as the United States and China, while tourism activity continues to be assessed in the context of broader geopolitical developments.

Robust Air And Sea Connectivity

Supporting this cooperation, Konstantinos Kollias said around 600,000 Cypriots travelled to Greece in 2025. Frequent flights, short travel times, and ferry connections between Limassol and Piraeus continue to facilitate movement between the two countries and sustain travel flows.

Diverse Tourism Offerings for a New Era

Konstantinos Kollias highlighted that Greece’s tourism portfolio spans from traditional seaside holidays to sectors such as cultural, religious, gastronomic, agritourism, ecotourism, spa, conference, and medical tourism.

This range reflects the expansion of tourism offerings across different segments and travel preferences. In parallel, Joseph Iosif referred to Greece as a “second homeland” for Cypriot travellers, pointing to longstanding cultural and travel links between the two countries.

Innovative Programs And Strengthened Connections

Building on this approach, the EOT strategy includes initiatives focused on gastronomic routes, cultural trails, thematic and religious tourism, as well as curated city breaks in destinations such as Athens and Thessaloniki. These programmes were presented at the event alongside references to historical, cultural, and religious connections between Cyprus and Greece, including remarks from Bishop Gregorios of Mesaoria.

Boosting Air Connectivity And Island Accessibility

At the same time, airlines including Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Cyprus Airways outlined plans to expand connections between Cyprus and Greece, with a focus on increasing access to island destinations. The event also brought together stakeholders from the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, Hermes Airports, tour operators, and ACTAA, reflecting coordination across different parts of the tourism sector.

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