RIF Secures €7.5 Million To Bolster Cyprus’ Research Enterprise

Government Endorsement And Strategic Investment

The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) has announced a landmark funding initiative with an additional allocation of €7.5 million for its new Open Access Research Infrastructures programme. This infusion of capital is aimed at elevating Cyprus’ research capabilities by facilitating the acquisition of advanced, specialised equipment for experiments and testing.

Enhancing Capabilities Through Open Access

The programme targets key research organisations, providing grants to purchase and install high-tech infrastructure equipment. By ensuring open access to these resources, the initiative is designed to stimulate both academic exploration and business innovation, laying a robust foundation for a thriving research ecosystem.

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Focused Investment And Strategic Timelines

With a total budget of €7,500,000 and maximum project funding of €500,000 per application, this programme is a critical component of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). Its execution is bound by a strict timetable, with the plan set to conclude in June 2026, underscoring the urgency and precision of these investments.

Call For Proposals

Applicants are invited to submit their proposals by July 1, 2025. For further information, interested parties may contact the RIF’s support service at 22205000 or via email at support@research.org.cy.

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Cyprus Reduces Fuel Tax By 8.33 Cents As Prices Continue To Rise

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 1, 2026

The latest surge in fuel prices is putting unprecedented pressure on consumer purchasing power, forcing government intervention amid volatile global energy markets. Historic highs at the pump have compelled officials to enact further consumption tax cuts in a bid to stabilize household budgets while international trends remain unpredictable.

Government Intervention And Policy Measures

Authorities plan to approve an 8.33 cent per liter reduction in consumption tax on premium unleaded gasoline and diesel, effective from April 2026. This will be the third intervention since 2022, when fuel prices rose following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and after a further adjustment in November 2023.

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Historical Context And Comparative Analysis

Fuel prices have increased over recent years. In March 2022, premium unleaded stood at €1.442 per liter and diesel at €1.500. By November 2023, prices rose to €1.550 for gasoline and €1.709 for diesel. As of March 2026, gasoline reached €1.571 per liter and diesel €1.819. Compared with 2023 levels, gasoline prices increased by 1.8 cents per liter, while diesel rose by 10.9 cents.

Global Market Dynamics Impacting Local Prices

International benchmarks continue to influence domestic fuel prices. Brent crude remains above $100 per barrel, while the price of heavy Brent oil has increased by about 58% since February 2026. Market indicators such as the Platts Basis Italy index show increases of 52% for gasoline, 89% for diesel, and 88% for heating oil. These trends affect import costs and pricing across the local market.

Consumer Concerns And The Search For Relief

The planned tax reduction may provide short-term relief for transport fuels. Heating oil prices remain higher, reaching about €1.30 per liter, approximately 6 cents above previous levels. No tax reduction has been announced for heating fuel. According to Konstantinos Karagiorgis, reliance on private vehicles increases the impact of fuel price changes on households, given limited public transport options.

Outlook And Future Considerations

The tax reduction is expected to offset part of the recent increase in fuel costs. Consumer groups, including the Cyprus Consumer Association, have called for similar measures on heating oil. Further developments will depend on global energy prices and geopolitical conditions.

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