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Tourism Sector Flourishes With Increasing Interest From Polish Market

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 22, 2024

Cyprus is witnessing a significant boost in tourism from Poland, with growing numbers of Polish tourists bolstering the sector. The Tourism Development and Promotion Company of the Famagusta Region, in collaboration with local hotels, recently participated in a roadshow organized by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism. This event, held in Warsaw, Krakow, and Katowice, aimed to strengthen existing collaborations and showcase Cyprus as an attractive year-round destination.

The strategic focus on the Polish market has yielded positive results, thanks in part to the robust connectivity between Larnaca Airport and several Polish cities through direct flights. This ease of access has been crucial in attracting Polish tourists, enhancing both summer mass tourism and niche tourism throughout the year. The increased interest from Polish tour operators indicates a growing recognition of Cyprus as a prime holiday destination.

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George Kafkalias, an official from the Famagusta Tourism Board, emphasized the potential of the Polish market to become one of the most significant sources of tourists for Cyprus. He highlighted the importance of building on the positive trends observed in recent years and continuing to invest in this market. According to Kafkalias, the connectivity between Larnaca Airport and various Polish destinations is a pivotal factor in further developing this market segment.

The efforts to tap into the Polish market are already showing promising results, with expectations that tourist arrivals from Poland in 2024 will surpass those of the previous year. This optimistic outlook is based on the increased interest from Polish tour operators and the positive feedback received during the roadshow.

The focus on promoting Cyprus’ diverse tourism offerings, including cultural experiences, natural attractions, and special interest tourism, has resonated well with Polish tourists. The emphasis on year-round tourism also aligns with the broader strategic goals of Cyprus’ tourism sector, aiming to reduce seasonality and promote sustainable tourism growth.

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Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

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.