Cyprus Competitiveness & Modernisation: Commerce Minister Michael Damianos said Cyprus is betting on the green and digital transition, with over €500m secured in the 2021-2027 period to back entrepreneurship, industrial development, energy upgrading, the circular economy and business digital transformation. Energy & Defence Links: President Isaac Herzog met Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia, pushing for expanded Mediterranean diplomacy and signalling Israeli defence and economic cooperation; Cyprus is also exploring SAFE financing opportunities for defence investment. EU Procurement Push: The European Commission proposed a Public Procurement Act that would let public buyers exclude bids from suppliers in countries not covered by EU procurement agreements, with reports framing it as aimed at China—raising concerns of protectionism. Maritime Governance: Cyprus’ planned coast guard will start under the justice ministry and later move to the deputy shipping ministry, with duties including offshore platforms and fibre optic cable protection. Housing & Land Access: A new scheme will offer eligible families state plots at 25% of market value, with eligibility rules expected mid-September and additional costs for land preparation and building plans. Agriculture Prices: Eurostat data showed EU agricultural output prices down 5.8% in Q2 2026; Cyprus was among the few with an increase (+3.5%), while input costs rose across the bloc. Productivity Focus: A University of Cyprus report found productivity gains over 1996-2025 were concentrated in a few sectors, led by ICT, while agriculture and some services saw declines. Local Business & Skills: Cabinet approved new board appointments including CySEC leadership and the first governing board for the National Cancer Institute, alongside youth and other public bodies.