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Limassol To Pioneer Maritime Leadership Under Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency 2026

Limassol is set to become a pivotal hub for maritime affairs during Cyprus’ EU Council Presidency in 2026, as Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis underscores shipping as one of the government’s highest priorities. In a detailed conversation with Entrepreneurial Limassol—published by the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry—the Deputy Minister highlighted the transformative impact of the annual Maritime Cyprus conference, now recognized as one of the largest events in the global shipping calendar.

Strategic Support And International Endorsement

Hadjimanolis emphasized that the conference not only surpassed all expectations in attendance and the caliber of discussions, but it also attracted influential figures including shipowners, senior executives, regulators, and eminent international organizations. The presence of such high-profile attendees, including the IMO Secretary-General and two EU Commissioners, reinforces both the significance of the event and the broad international support for Cypriot shipping.

EU Presidency: A Catalyst For Maritime Initiatives

Looking ahead, Cyprus plans to leverage its EU Presidency in the first half of 2026 to further embed shipping across its political and economic agenda. The Shipping Deputy Ministry is orchestrating a series of high-level engagements, notably an informal meeting of EU ministers responsible for shipping, set to convene in Nicosia this April. During this meeting, a declaration focusing on maritime education is slated for adoption, which will likely guide future policy directions.

Enhancing The Cyprus Flag And Cruise Competitiveness

Continuing its commitment, the government is accelerating digital transformation initiatives within the Deputy Ministry of Shipping and actively engaging with international shipowners through global conferences. Hadjimanolis also noted targeted promotional efforts and stated that enhancing service delivery is crucial for attracting additional tonnage under the Cyprus flag. In the cruise sector, despite adjustments in itineraries due to prevailing geopolitical tensions, interest from international companies and regional collaborators is on the rise. The initial phase of the National Cruise Strategy is complete, with an actionable roadmap now under development in collaboration with industry stakeholders. This coordinated strategy aims to bolster Cyprus’s competitive edge as an Eastern Mediterranean cruise destination.

A Vision For Maritime Excellence

In conclusion, Hadjimanolis expressed her unwavering confidence in Cyprus’ capacity to not only navigate but also capitalize on the current geopolitical challenges. Through robust coordination, strategic partnerships, and a pragmatic approach, Cyprus is positioned to set a new standard in maritime excellence during its EU Council Presidency and beyond.

Cyprus Residential Market Surpasses €2.5 Billion In 2025 With Apartments Leading the Way

Market Overview

In 2025, Cyprus’ newly built residential property market achieved a remarkable milestone, exceeding €2.5 billion. Data from Landbank Analytics indicates robust activity countrywide, with newly filed contracts reaching 7,819, including off-plan developments. This solid performance underscores the market’s resilience and dynamism across all districts.

Transaction Breakdown

The apartment sector clearly dominated the market, constituting 81.6% of transactions with 6,382 deals valued at €1.77 billion. In contrast, house sales represented a smaller segment, encompassing 1,437 transactions and generating €737.9 million. The record-high transaction was noted in Limassol, where an apartment sold for approximately €15.2 million, while the priciest house fetched roughly €6.2 million.

Regional Analysis

Nicosia: The capital recorded steady domestic demand with 2,171 new residential transactions. Apartments accounted for 1,836 deals generating €349.6 million, compared to 335 house transactions worth €105.5 million, anchoring Nicosia as a core market with average values of €190,000 for apartments and €315,000 for houses.

Limassol: As the island’s principal investment center, Limassol led overall activity with 2,207 transactions. Apartments dominated with 1,936 sales generating €824.1 million, while 271 house transactions added €157.9 million. The district enjoyed premium pricing, with apartments averaging over €425,000 and houses around €583,000.

Larnaca: This district maintained robust activity with a total of 2,020 transactions. The apartment segment realized 1,770 transactions worth €353 million, and houses contributed 250 deals valued at €96.3 million. Average prices hovered near €200,000 for apartments and €385,000 for houses, positioning Larnaca within the mid-market bracket.

Paphos: With a more balanced mix, Paphos completed 1,078 transactions. Ranking second in overall value at €503.2 million, the district saw house sales generate €287.8 million and apartments €215.4 million. Consequently, Paphos achieved the highest average house price at approximately €710,000 and an apartment average of €320,000, emphasizing its premium housing profile.

Famagusta: Distinguished by lower transaction volumes, Famagusta was the sole district where house sales outnumbered apartment deals. Out of 343 transactions, 176 involved houses (yielding €90.4 million) and 167 were apartments (at €32.4 million). The segment’s average prices were about €194,000 for apartments and over €513,000 for houses, signaling its focus on holiday residences and coastal developments.

Sector Insights and Forward View

Commenting on the report, Landbank Group CEO Andreas Christophorides remarked that the analysis demonstrates an ecosystem where apartments are the cornerstone of the real estate market. He emphasized, “The apartment sector is not merely a trend; it is the engine powering the country’s real estate market.” Christophorides also highlighted the diverse regional dynamics: Limassol leads in apartment pricing, Paphos commands premium house prices, Nicosia remains pivotal to domestic demand, Larnaca sustains competitive activity, and Famagusta caters to holiday home buyers.

In a market characterized by these varied profiles, informed monitoring of regional and sector-specific dynamics is crucial for investors aiming to make targeted and strategic decisions.

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