Limassol, Cyprus. Cyprus’ shipping sector is strengthening its international position despite geopolitical tensions, Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis said at the 9th Capital Link Cyprus Shipping Forum. She pointed to growth in the registry and shipmanagement activity, with competitiveness and the green transition central to policy.
Forum address and discussion
Hadjimanolis delivered a keynote presentation followed by a one-on-one discussion titled “Cyprus Maritime Cluster in the Spotlight – Strength, Resilience & Growth” with Nicolas Montanios.
Operating environment and sector resilience
In her keynote, she said the sector is operating in a demanding environment, citing continued uncertainty for global shipping driven by geopolitical instability, market volatility, and the accelerating green and digital transition. She added that shipping has historically adapted and led, and said Cyprus shipping has delivered tangible results in this environment.
Registry growth and policy focus
Hadjimanolis said the Cyprus registry recorded a 23 per cent increase in total tonnage over the past two years, reaching its highest level in 25 years. She attributed the performance to regulatory predictability, high safety and compliance standards, continuous service improvement, and targeted incentives supporting the green and digital transition without undermining competitiveness.
Shipmanagement contribution
She highlighted shipmanagement as a core pillar of the maritime cluster. Between the first half of 2024 and the first half of 2025, she said the sector’s contribution to GDP rose by 17 per cent, supporting thousands of highly skilled jobs and confirming Cyprus’ role as one of the leading global shipmanagement centres.
Maritime priorities and EU Presidency plans
During the discussion, Hadjimanolis referred to recent visits to Athens and Alexandria and outlined Cyprus’ maritime priorities ahead of the country’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. She said flagship events during the Presidency will include the Lefkosia Declaration, a high-level ministerial stakeholders conference, and an informal meeting of EU ministers responsible for maritime affairs.
What do you think Cyprus should prioritise most to balance competitiveness with the green transition in shipping?
