Cyprus is a strong maritime country. It helps the economy a lot. The country is also becoming more important in the world. Cyprus has a good shipping industry. It is known as a top place for ships. This will become even better. Cyprus will lead the Council of the European Union in 2026. This shows Cyprus wants to help shipping in Europe and the world.
The shipping industry in Cyprus is very strong. It adds 7% to the country's economy. This is very important. The industry creates many jobs. Over 9,000 people work on land. Also, 80,000 people work on ships. Cyprus is 12th in the world for ships and flags. This is according to UNCTAD. Companies in Cyprus that manage ships will earn about €978 million. This is for the first half of 2025. This shows business is good.
Cyprus is good at developing its industry. It can change with the world. It also works well with others. However, some leaders want a faster "One-Stop Shipping Centre." This centre would make things easier for businesses. It will help the shipping sector work better. It will also make Cyprus more competitive.
Cyprus will soon lead the EU Council. This is a big chance. Cyprus can use its strong shipping knowledge. It can show it is a reliable place for ships. Alexandros Iosefidis from the Cyprus Shipping Chamber said more. He said Cyprus can help with clean fuels. It can use money from the EU for green shipping. It can also help with rules for shipping. This will make things fair for everyone.
Shipping is very important for Cyprus and Europe. Cyprus wants to help with new green technologies. It wants to make shipping cleaner. It will use money to help the environment. Cyprus also wants to make sure rules are fair. It wants to help new ideas. Cyprus wants to be a place for investment. It wants to make doing business easier.