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Halloumi, Tech Companies, and the Focus on Niche Markets in Cyprus

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 2, 2024

Cyprus continues to draw international attention for its hallmark product—halloumi—while simultaneously witnessing the rapid growth of its technology sector. As the island balances its traditional agricultural strengths with its ambition to become a regional tech hub, a growing number of businesses are targeting niche markets to drive economic growth and global competitiveness.

Halloumi, the iconic Cypriot cheese, remains a significant contributor to the country’s economy. Its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, granted by the European Union, has provided a vital shield, securing its authenticity and safeguarding Cypriot producers from international competition. This distinction ensures that only cheese produced in Cyprus following traditional methods can be marketed under the “halloumi” name within the EU. Consequently, halloumi exports have surged, solidifying its role as a national asset.

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Yet, while agriculture remains an important economic pillar, Cyprus is diversifying rapidly into technology, driven by the digital transformation of global industries. The Cypriot tech sector has grown significantly in recent years, with local and international companies establishing themselves on the island. This growth is supported by favourable government policies, including tax incentives and investment in digital infrastructure, as well as the country’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Tech companies in Cyprus are increasingly looking to niche markets to carve out competitive advantages. These markets—ranging from fintech to healthtech and cybersecurity—offer opportunities for specialised solutions, particularly in a world where digital services and innovation are at the forefront of global demand. By focusing on these targeted areas, Cypriot tech firms are aiming to provide unique value propositions, establishing themselves as leaders in their respective fields.

The marriage of tradition and innovation is a defining characteristic of Cyprus’ current economic trajectory. Halloumi serves as a reminder of the island’s rich cultural heritage, while the burgeoning tech industry illustrates its forward-looking ambitions. For businesses operating in Cyprus, this combination presents a unique opportunity to leverage the country’s growing reputation in both sectors.

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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.