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Cyprus Records Third-Highest Annual Growth Rate in the EU for Q2 2024

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 9, 2024

Cyprus has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the European Union, registering the third-highest annual growth rate for the second quarter of 2024. This significant economic performance demonstrates the island nation’s ability to adapt and thrive amid both regional and global economic challenges. As other EU member states grapple with inflation and economic stagnation, Cyprus has posted an impressive annual growth rate of 3.6%, outpaced only by Ireland and Romania.

A Strong Recovery

The latest data underscores Cyprus’ robust economic recovery, bolstered by a combination of government policies and favourable market conditions. The Cypriot economy has shown resilience, particularly in its key sectors, such as tourism, real estate, and financial services. With tourism returning to pre-pandemic levels, and an uptick in foreign investments, Cyprus has capitalised on its strategic location and regulatory framework to attract business and bolster growth.

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The 3.6% annual growth rate is especially significant in the context of broader economic uncertainty across Europe, where many countries are experiencing slower or negative growth. According to Eurostat, the European Union recorded an average annual growth rate of 1.2% for Q2 2024, which puts Cyprus well above the regional average. This surge reflects both the island’s economic dynamism and its capacity to withstand external pressures.

Key Sectors

Tourism remains a key driver of economic activity in Cyprus, with revenues from this sector playing a pivotal role in boosting national GDP. Following a strong summer season in 2023, the influx of tourists has continued into 2024, with significant arrivals from traditional markets such as the UK and Germany, as well as new markets in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Moreover, the government’s strategic initiatives, including targeted marketing campaigns and improved infrastructure, have helped to solidify the island’s reputation as a top-tier tourist destination.

Beyond tourism, Cyprus’ financial services and real estate sectors have been instrumental in driving growth. The island continues to attract foreign investors, particularly in real estate, where demand for high-end residential and commercial properties remains strong. Additionally, the financial services sector has benefited from Cyprus’ business-friendly tax regime and regulatory environment, further enhancing the country’s status as a regional financial hub.

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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.