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Duration Of Working Life In Cyprus Reaches 39 Years in 2023

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 26, 2024

According to recent data from Eurostat, the expected average duration of working life for individuals in Cyprus has reached 39 years in 2023, surpassing the European Union (EU) average of 36.9 years. This marks a notable increase from previous years and highlights significant trends in the workforce demographics of the region.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

The duration of working life varies considerably across the EU. The Netherlands, Sweden, and Denmark report the highest durations, with figures exceeding 40 years. Conversely, countries like Romania, Italy, and Croatia have some of the shortest working life spans, with Romania at the lowest end with 32.2 years.

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In Cyprus, the gender disparity is evident. Men have an average working life of 41.6 years, while women have a shorter span at 36.3 years. This trend aligns with broader EU patterns where men typically have longer working lives compared to women. For instance, the longest working life for men in the EU is observed in the Netherlands (45.7 years), while for women, it is in Sweden (41.9 years).

Historical Trends and the Impact of COVID-19

The duration of working life has seen a general increase across the EU from 2013 to 2019, peaking at 35.9 years before a slight decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the figures rebounded to pre-pandemic levels by 2021. In Cyprus, the pattern was similar, with the working life duration dipping in 2020 but recovering and surpassing previous levels by 2021.

Implications and Future Outlook

The increasing duration of working life in Cyprus reflects broader economic and social trends, including rising retirement ages, improved healthcare, and evolving employment practices. For businesses and policymakers, these statistics are crucial for planning and strategising around workforce development, retirement funding, and social security systems.

As the working life duration continues to extend, there are implications for both employers and employees. Companies must adapt to an ageing workforce by investing in continuous training and creating inclusive work environments that accommodate older employees. For workers, this trend underscores the importance of lifelong learning and career adaptability.

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Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

Investigation Initiated Over Strategic Acquisition

The Competition Protection Authority has commenced a thorough investigation into the acquisition of ExxonMobil Cyprus Limited’s share capital by Petrolina Holdings Public Ltd through Med Energywise Ltd. This inquiry was formally initiated following a session held on 10 September 2025, after an in-depth review of the pertinent report by the Authority’s Service.

Concerns Over Market Compatibility

Authorities have expressed serious concerns regarding the compatibility of the transaction with established competitive practices. The review indicates that the acquisition may affect several critical petroleum markets, both horizontally and vertically, thereby raising the potential for adverse impacts on market dynamics.

Horizontal Market Dynamics

On the horizontal front, potential effects have been identified in the import market for petroleum products, as well as in both wholesale and retail distribution channels of these products. The consolidation is believed to increase the risk of price rises and coordinated actions, given the direct competitive proximity between Petrolina and ExxonMobil.

Vertical and Adjacent Market Implications

Vertical aspects of the merger are also under close scrutiny. The new entity could restrict competitors’ access to critical infrastructure such as storage facilities, supply channels, and customer bases. These restrictions could further affect the onshore distribution of fuels, the wholesale market for lubricants, and specialized technical services connected with fuel station operations.

Local Market Considerations

Particular attention is being paid to the potential concentration in the retail fuel market. The investigation suggests that a reduced competitive landscape within a four-kilometer radius of the companies’ fuel stations could lead to diminished local competition, adversely impacting consumer prices and options.

Next Steps and Industry Impact

The Competition Protection Authority, which reached a unanimous decision to pursue a full investigation, remains open to submissions from parties that might be affected by this transaction, as mandated by current legislation. A final decision is expected within four months upon receipt of all necessary evidence, potentially setting a significant precedent for future market consolidation cases in the energy sector.