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Tax Reform As A Modernization Catalyst: PASYDY And KEVE Applaud Progressive Change

Stakeholders Hail A New Era In Cyprus Tax Policy

The recent passage of the tax reform bills has been met with optimism by key industry organizations. Both PASYDY and KEVE have welcomed the legislation, praising it as a significant step toward modernizing Cyprus’ tax framework—with PASYDY emphasizing fairness and economic stability, and KEVE focusing on competitiveness and investment confidence.

Pasydy Celebrates A Modern And Equitable System

PASYDY expressed satisfaction with the executive initiative to enact an all‐encompassing tax reform, highlighting the importance of a modern and equitable tax system as a cornerstone for economic stability, social justice, and sustainable growth. The association underscored that the new legislation will contribute substantially to curbing tax evasion while strengthening the state’s revenue collection mechanisms.

Notably, PASYDY recalls its March 2022 submission to the Minister of Finance, which recommended adjustments to personal income tax brackets—citing deflationary effects from the previous revision nearly two decades ago. Several of its proposals were incorporated into the final bill, including the expansion of tax brackets and income criteria for tax deductions, particularly benefiting families with children. These measures are expected to offer annual savings of between €500 and €2,000, providing significant relief to the middle class.

Keve: A Milestone For Transformation And Competitiveness

KEVE, representing the broader business community, has characterized the reform as a transformational milestone. The chamber’s leadership believes the overhaul aligns the tax system with the demands of a modern economy, thus enhancing Cyprus’ international competitiveness. KEVE sees the reform as a historic opportunity to fortify the country’s economic stability, transparency, and appeal as a destination for business and investment.

KEVE’s response highlights several key enhancements, including the elimination of the imputed dividend distribution and a reduction in the Extraordinary Defense Contribution on dividends to 5%. In its strategic dialogue with policymakers, the chamber placed a premium on legal certainty and a stable business environment—ensuring that revenue collection is balanced with judicial oversight, and that administrative provisions remain clear to foster both international outreach and investment attraction.

Moreover, the reform is lauded for its substantial societal impact. KEVE pointed to the increased tax-free threshold and targeted support measures for families as instrumental in bolstering disposable income and addressing declining birth rates. The chamber has committed to closely monitoring the implementation of the reform as it continues to serve as a key institutional partner in advancing economic progress and prosperity across Cyprus.

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

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