The proposal to establish a Registry of Certified Business and Public Organization Consultants has gained traction in Cyprus, following a discussion this week before the Parliamentary Committee on Commerce. The legislative initiative, submitted by DISY MPs Kyriakos Hadjiyiannis and Nikos Sykas, seeks to introduce an official framework for the licensing and oversight of professionals providing consulting services to businesses and public bodies.

According to the explanatory memorandum, the proposed legislation aims to safeguard and enhance the quality and credibility of consulting services offered in Cyprus — a sector seen as crucial for competitiveness, strategic growth, and decision-making both in the private and public spheres.

Under the bill, recognized professional bodies will serve as the competent authorities responsible for granting consultant licenses, with the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry maintaining the official registry. However, registration will remain optional, ensuring that individuals without a license can still practice, provided they comply with general professional standards.

Stakeholders broadly welcomed the proposal. The Association of Certified Business Consultants of Cyprus supported the move, with its vice-president Spyros Ragias stressing the need to upgrade the profession, noting that “today, anyone can simply open an office and call themselves a consultant.” SESEK, he added, already operates under international accreditation and inspection standards.

The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Cyprus also expressed support but proposed that the regulation be expanded to cover additional professions related to business advisory services. Meanwhile, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed agreement in principle but raised concerns about the qualification requirements set out in the draft.

Representatives from the Cyprus Bar Association and the Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) requested further clarification on the bill’s scope.

However, the Ministry of Commerce distanced itself from taking on the role of the supervising authority, explaining it currently lacks the infrastructure and expertise to maintain such a registry. The Ministry of Finance also requested additional information on the proposal’s rationale and potential overlap with existing professional bodies.

The Human Resource Development Authority suggested incorporating its Professional Qualification Standards and certification procedures into the law as an alternative route to licensing, highlighting potential quality and cost benefits for consultants and their business clients.