European Commission Closes Cyprus Citizenship Program Infringement Case

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 16, 2026

European Commission Concludes Investigation

Cyprus has taken decisive steps to address the concerns raised by the European Commission over its former Citizenship-by-Investment Program. The Commission, following a thorough review of the allegations, announced on March 11, 2026 that it is closing the case related to alleged breaches by the Republic of Cyprus.

Regulatory Violations And Commission’s Stance

Commission Representative Mark Lambert was unequivocal during his remarks with CYPRUS PROFILE, stating that such citizenship investment schemes contravene EU law, as European citizenship must remain non-commercial and not subject to purchase. Despite suspending the issuance of investor citizenship in October 2020, Cyprus had not fully repealed the underlying legislation, triggering infringement procedures.

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Legislative Reforms And Resolution

The government of Cyprus responded by finalizing the processing of pending applications in 2021 and formally repealing the legal framework for the program, effective December 12, 2025. These timely reforms have effectively allayed the Commission’s concerns, prompting the closure of the infringement case.

Implications For EU Regulatory Compliance

This development underscores the EU’s stringent oversight of member state policies to ensure alignment with its fundamental legal principles. Cyprus’ swift legislative actions illustrate a commitment to upholding EU standards and bolstering confidence in the region’s regulatory framework.

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Cyprus Introduces €200 Million Support Measures To Cut Energy And Food Costs

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 27, 2026

Comprehensive Relief Measures For A Resilient Economy

The government of Cyprus introduced support measures exceeding €200 million to reduce household expenses and support key sectors. The package targets energy costs, food prices, tourism and agriculture. Measures come in response to rising costs and supply pressures. Implementation begins in April and May 2026.

Energy And Fiscal Reforms

The government will reduce VAT on electricity for households to 5% from May 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027. The measure is expected to lower energy bills. Special consumption tax on transport fuels will decrease by 8.33 cents per liter between April and June 2026. Policy targets fuel-related costs.

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Broadening The Zero VAT Initiative

Authorities will expand the list of products with zero VAT. Meat, poultry and fish will be included from April 1 to September 30, 2026. Existing zero-VAT categories already include fruits and vegetables. The government also decided not to introduce a green tax on fuels, avoiding an additional cost of about 9 cents per liter.

Sector-Specific Supports

The package includes a 30% wage subsidy for hotel employees for April 2026. Measure supports tourism businesses during the early season. Support for airlines aims to maintain connectivity with key destinations. The agriculture sector will receive subsidies covering 15% of costs for fertilizers and supplies in April and May.

Economic Stability, National Security

President Nikos Christodoulidis said economic stability remains a priority for the government. He noted that growth, fiscal balance and inflation trends support current policy decisions. Statement links economic policy with broader national priorities. The government continues to monitor external risks.

Ensuring Consumer Protection

Furthermore, the government has mandated rigorous market oversight and intensified inspections to prevent exploitative pricing during this period of economic intervention. This proactive stance ensures that the benefits of the measures directly serve the citizens without unintended inflationary impacts.

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