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Hybrid And Electric Cars Drive Growth In Cyprus’ Vehicle Market

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 10, 2024

The vehicle registration market in Cyprus saw a significant shift in 2024, with hybrid and electric cars leading the way. From January to November, overall vehicle registrations increased by 10.1%, driven largely by the rising demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Hybrid vehicles in particular experienced a remarkable growth, making up 36.9% of all new car registrations, up from 28.9% in 2023. Meanwhile, electric vehicle registrations doubled to 4% of the market, compared to just 2.7% last year.

The surge in hybrid and electric vehicles reflects the broader global trend towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. With fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives becoming more accessible and desirable, consumers in Cyprus are increasingly opting for these vehicles. Hybrid cars, with their blend of petrol and electric power, offer a practical solution for those looking to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions, while electric vehicles continue to gain traction as the country invests in charging infrastructure and green energy initiatives.

On the other hand, traditional petrol-powered vehicles have seen a decline in popularity, dropping from 58.2% of the market in 2023 to 48.9% in 2024. Diesel-powered vehicles have remained stable, accounting for 10.1%, but the shift towards cleaner, more efficient options is evident.

Overall, the increase in hybrid and electric vehicle registrations reflects a significant change in consumer attitudes, driven by both environmental concerns and the growing availability of green vehicle models. This shift is likely to continue as more incentives and infrastructure are introduced to support eco-friendly transportation, positioning Cyprus as part of the broader global movement towards sustainable urban mobility.

Despite some decline in overall vehicle registrations in November 2024, hybrid and electric vehicles appear to be at the forefront of Cyprus’ automotive future. With rising fuel prices and heightened awareness of climate change, the shift to greener vehicles is a clear response to both economic and environmental factors, making hybrid and electric cars the preferred choice for many Cypriot drivers.

New Decrees For Blue Card And Foreign Students: Key Changes And Implications

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 20, 2024

The Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance has announced a series of new measures aimed at addressing the increasing demands of Cyprus’ labor market. These initiatives are designed to attract highly skilled professionals from third countries and broaden employment opportunities for foreign students in select fields, as outlined in the recent Decrees published in the Official Gazette of the Republic.

Attracting Skilled Professionals

One of the key updates is the introduction of a minimum annual salary for foreign professionals, which has been set at €43,632, 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Cyprus. This salary threshold applies to individuals coming to work in sectors such as Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), pharmaceuticals for research purposes, and maritime industries (excluding skippers and crew).

Expanded Employment Options For Foreign Students

The new regulations also provide an update on the employment rights of foreign students. From December 2024, students from third countries will be able to work in Cyprus, with the new rules replacing the previous March 2024 start date.

Students studying ICT who have completed their first academic semester will be eligible to work in occupations related to their field of study, thereby gaining practical experience while pursuing their education.

In response to critical sector shortages, the regulations also clarify the specific occupations and salaries that Blue Card holders—third-country nationals—will be eligible for in Cyprus. The Blue Card, in line with the European Directive, allows highly skilled professionals to live and work in EU member states.

Strengthening The Labor Market and Economy

These updates are expected to bolster the supply of specialized workers in key sectors, addressing existing gaps and promoting the continued growth of Cyprus’ economy. At the same time, the new measures offer foreign students enhanced opportunities for professional development, facilitating their seamless integration into the country’s workforce.