Cyprus has a new water pricing policy. This policy makes water much more expensive for golf courses. These places use a lot of water. Now they must pay more for it. The government is also giving them less water from state dams. This is to make sure everyone shares the water fairly. The island has limited water. This change is because of the environment. It is also to avoid problems with the European Union. Golf courses must now find more expensive ways to get water.
This policy change has been planned for a long time. A law from 2017 said they needed better water use. After new taxes in 2025, water prices went up a lot. The Water Development Department says the new prices are fair. They say water is not free anymore. They also said that the law must be the same for everyone. Cyprus could face penalties from Europe if it does not.
Golf courses pay more than farmers. Farmers pay very little for water. Golf courses now pay €0.42 for each cubic meter. This is much higher than before. Also, a special environmental fee has quadrupled. This fee is now €0.08 per cubic meter.
The Water Department says golf courses have high bills because they use too much water. They say the main reason is the large amount of water they use. Some golf courses are in the Paphos region. These include Minthis Hills and Aphrodite Hills. They will need to make changes.
By May 2026, golf courses will not get water from state dams. They must find other water sources. They can use recycled water or desalinated water. These options cost more money. This new policy will change the cost of golf tourism in Cyprus. Water costs will be a big part of running these businesses. Cyprus wants to manage its water better. This will change the future of golf in the country.