The Vice President of Industry at the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Vassos Demetriades, envisions significant potential in the sectors of craftsmanship and manufacturing, which are closely tied to commerce, for the broader Limassol area. However, he emphasizes that while the region is home to major industries such as Medochemie, Remedica, and Charalambides Christis, the lack of infrastructure hampers the development of new large-scale industries.
Speaking to “Entrepreneurial Limassol”, Mr. Demetriades highlighted that many industries and craft enterprises in the city have made substantial investments, significantly contributing to the Cypriot economy. Nevertheless, he noted that several have outgrown their existing spaces and face challenges expanding due to the lack of available land. For new investors interested in establishing industries, the shortage of available plots in Limassol and the high cost of land pose significant obstacles. According to Mr. Demetriades, existing industrial areas are either full or have prohibitively high prices due to excessive demand.
The only available industrial area in the district is in Monagrouli. However, this area faces serious infrastructure and road network issues. "We are pressuring ministries and authorities through the Chamber, but the processes are moving at a very slow pace and are inadequate to meet development needs," he said. Mr. Demetriades pointed out that Cypriot entrepreneurs are resilient, having survived economic crises and continuing to invest in machinery and equipment. "However, they need space," he added.
The demand from Limassol’s industrialists is for the state to ensure the proper utilization of existing industrial areas. Mr. Demetriades mentioned that plots in these areas have been allocated to individuals and businesses unrelated to industry. He stressed the urgent need to complete the Monagrouli industrial area, which could attract numerous industries. Currently, this area is underutilized, with businesses only choosing it as a last resort due to poor road conditions and lack of services.
He emphasized the need for a study to identify new industrial zones and industrial parks with proper infrastructure, which is lacking in Cyprus. Addressing problems in industrial areas, Mr. Demetriades explained that while discussions and efforts are ongoing, progress is not happening at the desired pace. He reiterated that theft remains a persistent issue. "It’s not just theft from buildings—they steal fuel from vehicles, cables, batteries, and cause damage to steal metals."
Mr. Demetriades noted that over the years, the Ayios Athanasios Industrial Association (which he chairs) has consistently demanded fencing for industrial areas. Other industrial associations have made similar requests to control entry and exit. He also reminded that no emergency response plan exists for any industrial area, despite this issue being discussed with the Ministry for years.
While he acknowledged the good relations industrialists have with local authorities and the Ministry, he stressed that more than good relations are needed; action is required. For the new year, Mr. Demetriades is planning a meeting with the responsible Minister and a broad consultation at the Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry, involving craft industry owners, industrialists, and local authorities. The goal is to highlight and discuss the issues while jointly applying pressure to find solutions.
