Keve calls for regular government dialogue on competitiveness

Nicosia, Cyprus. The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) has called for a formal and regular dialogue with the government on competitiveness and the wider economy, saying this could help address issues affecting foreign investment.

The chamber said closer contact with the state could allow Cyprus to respond more quickly when companies consider leaving and to better seize opportunities to attract foreign firms.

Preventive communication

Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, Keve secretary general Philokypros Roussounides said more frequent communication with the government could help resolve problems affecting foreign investment before they become more serious.

He said ongoing dialogue could also help Cyprus benefit when geopolitical uncertainty prompts companies to seek a new base.

Company departure

Roussounides’ comments followed reports that a company had decided to leave Cyprus. He said the case should not be interpreted as evidence of a wider trend or the start of an exodus of businesses from the island.

He said Keve did not want the departure to create unnecessary concern over the position of other companies based in Cyprus.

Competitiveness proposals

Roussounides said the case demonstrated the need for a standing communication channel between the chamber and the government.

“What we are asking for is a dialogue on the competitiveness of the country and, more generally, the economy, which may affect foreign direct investment or companies based in Cyprus,” he said.

He added that Keve already has proposals on competitiveness and is ready to present them, together with supporting evidence, if requested.