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Cyta Unveils 2026 Budget For Digital And Infrastructure Upgrades

Strategic Digital Investment For Sustainable Growth

State-owned telecommunications leader Cyta unveiled its 2026 budget before the House finance and budget committee, emphasizing a commitment to digital infrastructure investment, network resilience, and the expansion of next-generation technologies. This forward-looking plan not only bolsters profitability but also reinforces Cyprus’ standing in the digital economy.

Robust Financial Discipline And Future-Focused Investments

Cyta said the budget is based on recent financial performance and a defined investment roadmap. Chair Maria Tsiakka stated that the plan is intended to deliver benefits for citizens, businesses and the wider economy. Revenues increased from €415 million to €442 million, while pre-tax profit is projected to reach €85 million in 2025, indicating steady financial performance and continued investment capacity.

Pioneering Next-Generation Technology Initiatives

The 2026 budget prioritizes next-generation network rollout. Cyta plans to maintain nationwide 5G coverage and continue expanding its fibre network across the island. Fibre works in urban and main rural areas are largely complete, with remote regions scheduled for early 2026, aiming to improve access to digital services.

Enhancing International Connectivity And Network Resilience

International connectivity is another focus area. The completion of the BlueMed subsea cable branch in 2025, along with ongoing expansion projects in the southeastern Mediterranean, is expected to strengthen Cyprus’ digital links. A multi-year agreement with a European satellite provider is also intended to improve broadband access and network reliability.

Investing In Data Infrastructure And Cybersecurity

Data hosting and cybersecurity remain key priorities. Cyta acquired the Simplex LCA1 data center in Larnaca and plans to invest about €20 million in data facilities and a further €20 million in energy upgrades. Compliance with ISO 27001 standards and the NIS2 regulatory framework is cited as part of its security and data protection strategy.

Operational Excellence And Workforce Development

The budget also addresses operational efficiency and workforce planning. Cyta employs around 1,960 staff and has continued targeted hiring while reviewing regulatory frameworks related to workforce restructuring. The approach is intended to align technological investment with human resource planning.

A Pillar Of National Progress

Cyta noted that its contributions to the public purse have exceeded €1.29 billion over the past 25 years. Continued investment in infrastructure and connectivity is expected to support both technological development and broader economic activity in Cyprus.

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

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