Latest news - Overview for the Republic of Cyprus

1. Car owners are left with costs in scooter collisions
Several motorists in Cyprus report having to bear the repair costs themselves after being touched by e-scooters or other PMDs (Personal Mobility Devices). 
The police confirm that they intervene in the event of major damage – in smaller cases, however, there is often a lack of legal action. Between 2023 and 2024, 3,996 fines were imposed in the area of PMDs, including 1,592 for use in prohibited areas.
  The legislation on the registration, insurance and regulation of these vehicles is still under review – until then, the risk remains mainly with motorists. 

2.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry appointed Aviv Ezra as the new ambassador to Cyprus on Sunday.
He will replace the current incumbent Oren Anolik in August 2026, provided that the approval of the Cypriots is granted. Until then, he will remain in his current position as Deputy Director General for Asia and the Pacific.
The appointment comes at a time of close cooperation between Israel and Cyprus, especially in the areas of energy and security – the move reflects this strategic orientation.

3. Digital price boards are making their way into Cypriot supermarkets
Cyprus' retail sector is starting to introduce electronic shelf prices (ESLs) across the board.
These digital displays allow for instant price updates, are designed to reduce paper consumption and make processes more efficient. One wholesaler described the measure as a technological advance with a competitive advantage.
At the same time, consumer associations are expressing concerns: The new technology could lead to price changes becoming less transparent – monitoring remains important.

4. Technology change in vehicle cockpits: Cyprus in the spotlight
A new report shows that international car manufacturers are reducing the number of screens in vehicles and instead relying on integrated software systems.
The Cypriot car industry is influenced by such trends: systems already installed in new models are changing the aftermarket market and consumer behavior.
This change is also reflected in Cyprus in the context of import models and service market structures – a long-term adjustment process is emerging.

5. Focus on Cyprus' role as future EU Council President
The island republic is preparing to take over the presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026.
Experts stress that this time is significant for Cyprus to set priorities in energy, migration and regional stability.
In a global situation of increasing uncertainty, the presidency is also an opportunity to strategically strengthen Cyprus' position in the EU and the Eastern Mediterranean.

6. Sea rescue operation off Limassol successfully completed
A man who was considered missing in the sea off Limassol was rescued by the cooperating search and rescue center after activation of the "Nearchos" rescue plan. 
The rescue took place in the afternoon – all coordination centers worked hand in hand to quickly bring the person ashore. 
The incident illustrates the importance of placed rescue and alarm plans in coastal areas of Cyprus, especially in the summer and transitional period.

7. Seven pistols found in open terrain near Nicosia
The police discovered seven pistols in an open area in the Makedonitissa district of Nicosia - whistleblowers had reported the find. 
The authorities are now investigating the origin, purpose and possible connection to organized crime. An official assessment of the threat situation is still pending. 
The measure is seen as a sign that the security facilities are increasingly reacting to hidden weapons caches - but it also causes unrest for residents.

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides announced that the tax reform will be implemented from 1 January – with a focus on a "fairer distribution of wealth". 
The government appealed to all parties involved – employers, trade unions and society – to work together. According to the president, delays would be at the expense of social justice. 
The reform includes changes in tax rates and levies – details are to be published in the coming weeks. Observers call the measures an important step in view of the rising cost of living.

9. Focus on improving working conditions for Cypriots in Tanzania
Coordinated efforts are being made between the UNHCR in Nairobi and the Crisis Management Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nicosia to bring back 22 Cypriots who are staying in Tanzania. 
According to the statement, those affected are in a precarious situation – the Federal Government of Cyprus is now strengthening its diplomatic contacts in East Africa to resolve these cases.  
The case underlines the challenges that arise for small states in global missions in crisis regions – risks for citizens abroad become more visible.

10. Weather situation: Dust and rain on the move – weak high pressure currently
According to the weather service, Cyprus is initially under a weak high pressure area, but from Wednesday a low is approaching, so rain and dust layers must be expected. 
Thin layers of dust in particular could cloud the sky - advice for allergy sufferers is given. 
The advance warning gives citizens the opportunity to prepare for changeable weather - from outdoor activities to gardening.