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Rental And Purchase Prices Soar Across All Cities

The commercial real estate market in Cyprus is currently experiencing a remarkable surge, with office rental and purchase prices escalating significantly across all major cities. This upward trend is driven by a robust demand for office spaces, fueled by both local businesses expanding their operations and a wave of foreign investment. Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca are particularly hot spots, with these cities witnessing the highest levels of interest and competition.

In Nicosia, the capital city, the demand for premium office spaces has led to a noticeable increase in both rental and purchase prices. Companies, especially those in the financial and professional services sectors, are actively seeking modern, well-located offices, driving up costs. Limassol, known as the business hub of Cyprus, is experiencing even more pronounced growth. The city’s status as a key destination for international businesses, particularly in shipping and finance, has spurred a significant rise in office demand, leading to a competitive market where prices continue to climb.

Larnaca is also witnessing strong growth, driven by recent infrastructural developments and its strategic location as a gateway to the island. The surge in office space demand here reflects the city’s growing importance as a business center, attracting both local and international companies.

The broader implications of this trend suggest that Cyprus is solidifying its position as a regional business hub. The ongoing expansion in the office market is a positive sign for the island’s economy, indicating investor confidence and the potential for sustained economic growth. However, the rapid rise in prices also poses challenges, particularly for smaller businesses and startups that may find it increasingly difficult to secure affordable office space.

As the office market continues to thrive, stakeholders in the commercial real estate sector, including developers, investors, and policymakers, will need to carefully navigate this evolving landscape. Ensuring a balanced supply of office space that meets the diverse needs of businesses while maintaining sustainable growth will be key to capitalizing on this momentum and supporting Cyprus’s long-term economic development.

Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

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.

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