Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ Property Developers Association said licensing delays remain a key obstacle to addressing the housing problem, urging faster permit approvals to boost supply. Separately, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry warned regional tensions are beginning to weigh on the economy, with tourism among the first sectors affected.
Developers raise licensing delays with Limassol district governor
The Property Developers Association said the issue was discussed at a meeting this week with Limassol district governor and Limassol district local government organisation (EOA) president Yiannis Tsouloftas.
The meeting was attended by association president Yiannis Misirlis, board members and general manager Mersina Isidorou, the association said.
The association cited what it described as persistent delays in the licensing process, adding that despite efforts to accelerate procedures, the problem continues. In some cases, it said, the time needed to obtain permits exceeds the time required to construct a project.
Misirlis said the delays are “one of the main factors that exacerbate the housing problem”, as they reduce the market’s ability to respond quickly to rising housing demand.
Keve warns regional war crisis affecting tourism
The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) said on Wednesday that the escalating war crisis in the wider region is starting to weigh on the Cypriot economy, with tourism among the first sectors to feel the impact.
In a statement, the chamber said Cyprus’ hotel and tourism industry was again being directly affected by geopolitical developments, citing reservation cancellations, a slowdown in new bookings and growing uncertainty in international markets.
Keve said tourism remains one of the most important pillars of the Cypriot economy, supporting thousands of businesses and employees, as well as sectors linked to hospitality, services, trade and transport.
The chamber said any fallout would not be confined to hotels, but would affect economic activity more broadly across the country. It said it was “imperative” for the state to act immediately and monitor the situation closely.
Tsouloftas visits DP World facilities at Limassol port
On Wednesday, Tsouloftas visited the DP World facilities at Limassol port, where he was briefed on operations and said activities continue without disruption despite recent regional tensions.
What impact do you expect permit approval times and regional tensions to have on Cyprus in the coming months?
