Cyprus construction stakeholders call for closer coordination amid licensing delays and labour shortages

Paphos, Cyprus. Cyprus’ construction sector needs closer coordination among contractors, engineers, architects and the state to address mounting pressures including regional instability, labour shortages and licensing delays, stakeholders said after a joint meeting.

Joint meeting brings together sector bodies and minister

The meeting was held on Saturday on the initiative of the association of building contractors (Oseok) and included Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades, scientific and technical chamber (Etek) president Constantinos Constanti, and the heads of key professional bodies across the sector.

Call for stronger cooperation and regular dialogue

Oseok said the discussion highlighted the need for stronger cooperation and more regular dialogue to shape common positions and coordinated proposals as part of efforts to modernise and upgrade the construction industry.

Issues discussed include Middle East crisis and public contracts

Items raised included the impact of the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East, faster licensing procedures, labour attraction, the review of public contracts, and the promotion of the Cyprus Joint Construction Contracts Tribunal.

The meeting also examined specific proposals which, according to the announcement, could improve how the sector operates and address long-standing challenges.

Working group and monthly meetings proposed

Participants also discussed forming a working group made up of representatives from the bodies involved, with meetings expected to take place monthly to record positions and recommendations for submission to the state.

Oseok president highlights sector’s economic role

Oseok president Stelios Gavriil said the meeting served as a platform for identifying shared concerns and the need for a more coordinated response.

He said construction contributes significantly to gross domestic product, employment, the delivery of critical infrastructure and the attraction of investment. “Behind this activity lies a strong technical and scientific human resource, which constitutes the basis for development, innovation and the quality of projects,” Gavriil said, adding that construction also acts as a driver for many other sectors of the economy.

What steps do you think would most improve coordination between the construction sector and the state?