STEK Warns Power Outages Risk Damaging Cyprus Tourism

The Cyprus Association of Tourist Enterprises (STEK) has expressed concern over Wednesday’s electricity outages, saying the disruptions affected hotel operations and risked damaging the visitor experience during the peak tourism season.

Hotels Affected By Power Outages

In a statement, STEK said the interruptions created operational difficulties for hotels at a time when Cyprus is seeking to strengthen its position in international tourism markets.

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The association said reliable electricity supply is essential for maintaining service standards and supporting the country’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.

Pressure On The Tourism Sector

STEK said the outages came during a challenging tourism season, with businesses already working to manage the impact of geopolitical developments in the wider region.

“Under these conditions, the last thing Cypriot tourism needs is additional internal problems that harm the image and credibility of the destination,” the association said.

The organisation also noted that electricity has become one of the highest operating costs for hotels, with energy expenses rising significantly in recent years.

Call To Strengthen Energy Infrastructure

STEK urged the government and relevant authorities to accelerate measures aimed at improving Cyprus’ energy security and ensuring sufficient electricity supply for critical infrastructure.

The association said reliable energy infrastructure is important for protecting the country’s competitiveness and international reputation.

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Shein Targets $25 Billion Valuation In Hong Kong IPO As Growth Slows

by News Editor

August 17, 2026

Shein is reportedly targeting a valuation of around $25 billion in its planned Hong Kong IPO, a sharp decline from the nearly $100 billion valuation the online fashion retailer achieved in a 2022 fundraising round.

Two people familiar with the plans said the company was likely to target about $25 billion, while another source put the expected range at $25 billion to $28 billion based on the proposed price band.

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IPO Valuation Falls Sharply

Shein plans to sell up to 8% of its shares in the offering, according to a person familiar with the plans. At a $25 billion valuation, that would translate into an IPO of as much as $2 billion.

The latest target is also below the $30 billion to $40 billion valuation the company was seeking earlier this month as it began meeting with potential investors.

Founded in China in 2012 and now headquartered in Singapore, Shein sells low-cost clothing to consumers in about 160 countries. The company is expected to launch its long-awaited Hong Kong IPO later this week.

Trade Restrictions Weigh On Growth

Shein’s valuation has come under pressure as major markets tighten rules affecting low-cost e-commerce shipments. The European Union, for example, has moved to impose additional fees on cheap parcels from platforms such as Shein and Temu. EU Tightens Rules On Low-Cost E-Commerce Parcels

In the U.S., the removal of an import duty exemption for small packages has also affected the company. Shein reported a $99 million quarterly loss in the first quarter of 2026 as sales growth slowed, while a one-time accounting charge further weighed on its results. Shein Reports First-Quarter Loss Ahead Of IPO

Investors Question Shein’s Growth Prospects

The steep reduction in valuation reflects growing concerns over slower growth, higher trade costs, regulatory pressure and stronger competition across global e-commerce.

Some investors who reviewed Shein’s recent financial statements or attended IPO presentations told Reuters they were skeptical that the company could return to the growth rates that supported its $98.2 billion valuation in 2022. Shein’s Slowing Growth Tests Investor Appetite

A lower IPO valuation could also affect Shein’s existing investors. Under the terms of its IPO filing, the company may have to issue additional shares to certain pre-IPO investors if its valuation falls below agreed thresholds.

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