Speaking at the 36th Annual General meeting of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) in Limassol, the President underlined the government’s firm commitment to supporting the local shipping industry through targeted and sustainable policies. He described the Chamber as a “catalytic factor” in placing Cyprus on the global maritime map since its establishment in 1989 and thanked outgoing president of the CSC, Themis Papadopoulos for his contribution. Christodoulides noted that the Cyprus shipping registry has grown by over 18 per cent in the past two years, while the country’s Tonnage Tax System recorded a 15 per cent increase over the same period. “We are not stopping here,” he said, pointing to a renewed effort to expand Cyprus’ appeal as a maritime base, citing increased interest from international shipping firms following his visit to New York in April. Moreover, he stressed that Cyprus continues to strengthen bilateral relations with other maritime nations, referencing his recent trip to Finland, which focused on shipping cooperation.

At the same time, the Deputy Ministry of Shipping has taken on a new initiative to promote technology-driven and R&D-related maritime services, as well as services linked to pleasure boats. As part of the broader strategy to enhance Cyprus’ maritime offering, the government is also advancing plans to develop cruise tourism.

The President reminded the audience that in October 2024, the cabinet approved the long-anticipated National Strategy for Cruise Tourism, following consistent calls from the Chamber.

The first phase of the strategy, mapping competitive advantages and identifying market gaps, has already been completed. A detailed action plan is now in the works and is expected to be finalised by July. Christodoulides said cruise ship arrivals are set to increase this year, describing it as a promising sign for the sector. He added that Limassol has been selected as a homeport by a cruise company operating in the Mediterranean. “Cyprus will develop into an attractive destination for cruise ships,” he said, expressing confidence in the strategy’s long-term impact. He also welcomed the continued interest in the Cyprus–Greece maritime passenger link, now in its fourth year, noting the government’s readiness to support new operators interested in entering the route.

In a nod to the challenges facing the industry, the President addressed geopolitical instability, the green and digital transition, and a shortage of skilled workers. He reiterated Cyprus’ support for the International Maritime Organization (IMO), praising the recent “ambitious decision” to adopt the draft Net-Zero Framework. However, he warned that the EU’s maritime sector has been adversely affected in recent years by protectionism, global competition, and certain third-country policies, calling for a stable and ambitious policy framework.

Looking ahead to 2026, Christodoulides said preparations for the Cyprus EU Council presidency are progressing swiftly and confirmed that Limassol will host an informal ministerial meeting on maritime affairs as part of the official programme. “Shipping is and will remain a strategic point for Cyprus,” he concluded, underlining the government’s ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to safeguard the industry’s competitiveness and global relevance.

Source: Cyprus Mail