Cyprus Businesses Struggle with Skilled Labor Shortage and Limited Financing
EIB Investment Survey Also Highlights Cyprus' High Global Trade Participation and Post-Pandemic Investment Growth
Cypriot businesses have demonstrated remarkable resilience in navigating health, price, and trade-related disruptions over the past five years. According to the latest European Investment Bank Investment Survey, released on Wednesday, Cypriot companies are more integrated into global trade than their counterparts across the European Union.
The survey revealed that 81% of Cypriot businesses are engaged in global trade, compared to the EU average of 63%. Moreover, investment levels in Cyprus have increased by 18% in real terms compared to pre-pandemic levels. Most Cypriot firms expressed satisfaction with their investment spending, surpassing their EU peers, largely benefiting from Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) funds.
The findings also highlight that Cypriot firms have a higher proportion of women in senior management positions compared to the EU average.
Despite their strong performance, Cypriot businesses cited a shortage of skilled labor and limited access to financing as key obstacles to further investment. These challenges were reported as more pressing in Cyprus than in other EU countries.
The EIB Group Investment Survey (EIBIS) is an annual study based on interviews with approximately 13,000 businesses across all EU member states, with additional insights from the United States. The survey’s key findings were first published in October, emphasizing the leading role of European businesses in climate transition investments and adaptation to evolving economic conditions.
"The EIB Investment Survey underscores the resilience and outward-looking nature of Cypriot businesses," said EIB Vice President Kyriakos Kakouris. "With investment levels significantly exceeding pre-pandemic figures and strong global trade participation, Cyprus is well-positioned for sustainable growth. As companies continue to prioritize modernization and innovation, I am optimistic that these investments will contribute to long-term prosperity and competitiveness."