Nicos Kouyialis, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of Cyprus
Nicos Kouyialis, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of Cyprus

The strategy of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of Cyprus is dedicated to achieving a greener, bluer and resource-efficient economy, as well as a more competitive and sustainable agriculture and fisheries, contributing to the stimulation of the economy with the creation of new employment opportunities and growth in rural and coastal areas, while ensuring the quality of life and the protection of the environment. Highlighting investment opportunities, Minister Nicos Kouyialis discusses endeavours and recent developments.

European Times: What are some of the recent developments in the agriculture sector?

Nicos Kouyialis: Our Ministry’s main priority is assisting farmers and thus securing the consistency of the agricultural production. Through the rural development program, we invested more than €200 million of European funds in order to stimulate the inclusion of young people in the agriculture sector, which will bring new ideas, knowledge and modern technology.

Considering the quality of the wines produced in Cyprus, such as the unique Commandaria, one of our main priorities is the development of the wine sector. Furthermore, as our second main export product, our priority is to register the Halloumi cheese as a PDO in order to secure the market and encourage the development of SMEs in the field. The Halloumi business has shown an outstanding growth of 20% in the past year. Other important export goods are the organic carobs, the early grown potatoes, taro and other aromatic plants.

European Times: In recent years, Cyprus has been highlighted for its positive role when it comes to renewable energy sources. Could you please elaborate on the projects in this sector?

Nicos Kouyialis: In the renewable energy sector, we are working on the implementation of two 50MW solar thermal plants. These projects, co-financed by the European Union, will increase the penetration of electricity from renewable energy sources. Other important projects include the pipeline which will transfer water from the distillation plant of Vassilikos to Nicosia; the pipeline connecting the Dhekelia distillation plant to the free Famagusta Area, as well as the distillation and waste management plant in Paphos. Furthermore, one of the country’s priorities is to exploit the state-owned land in Troodos.

European Times: Which sectors should be targeted by foreign investors?

The European Times Cyprus team together with Nicos Kouyialis, Minister of Agriculture
The European Times Cyprus team together with Nicos Kouyialis, Minister of Agriculture

Nicos Kouyialis: As a European Country with a stable and solid economy, Cyprus is one of the best places for vacationing, for living and for investments. The aqua culture sector and fisheries sector are very prosperous and there is extensive interest for investments in sea parks and sea reefs. Being the country with the highest number of blue flags, we have the best quality of sea water, which is why Cyprus is among the top destinations for vacation in Europe. Further sectors of interest include the renewable energy sector, the wine industry, the Halloumi production, as well as the meat and dairy industry.