The Cyprus tax authority announced on Thursday that it will continue to be exempt from VAT on selected essential consumer goods. This regulation applies for the entire year and has been extended by the government until 2026.

The basis for this is a cabinet decision of 21 November 2025.The

aim of the measure is to relieve the financial burden on private households and limit the increase in the cost of living.

including tampons.

In addition, the zero VAT rate continues to apply to various fresh or chilled vegetables. These include potatoes, tomatoes, onions, garlic, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, radishes, beans, peas, aubergines, peppers, mushrooms and spinach.

Fresh fruit is also covered by the tax exemption. These include bananas, figs, avocados, grapes, melons and watermelons, apples, pears, peaches, cherries and strawberries.

The tax authority expressly emphasised that companies and retailers are obliged to implement the applicable requirements fully and correctly.