TechIsland has launched the TechIsland Town Hall - a new format designed to bring stakeholders together for open, constructive discussions on issues that impact Cyprus’ society as a whole.
'We introduced this format because many important topics are often discussed in isolation," the association of tech companies posted on its social media. "Housing is one of the most pressing challenges affecting everyone living in Cyprus today. By bringing together stakeholders from across sectors into the same room, we enabled transparent dialogue and built shared understanding on complex issues where collaboration is essential."
Key insights from the discussion:
- Housing demand and supply are not aligned. Cyprus faces limited supply, regulatory inefficiencies, and a “wrong type” of supply entering the market, all of which continue to push prices and rents upward.
- Planning and permitting processes remain major bottlenecks. Delays, outdated zoning frameworks, and restrictive minimum apartment sizes reduce supply, limit developer flexibility, and increase costs.
- Build-to-Rent (BTR) shows strong long-term potential. This proven model can rapidly expand rental stock, stabilise prices, ensure professional management, and create sustainable communities. Countries such as the UK, the Netherlands, and Germany already apply it successfully, and Cyprus could benefit significantly from its adoption.
- Social infrastructure must grow alongside housing. Schools, healthcare, transport, and community amenities are necessary for sustainable development and quality of life.
- Greater collaboration is essential. Developers, government, banks, and employers must coordinate to modernise planning, streamline approvals, increase supply, and align new developments with required social infrastructure.
- Regulatory reform is needed. Priorities include standardised rental contracts, less restrictive zoning, modernised licensing and permitting processes, and incentives that encourage the development of affordable and diverse housing types.
The group agreed that a holistic, coordinated approach - across both public and private sectors - is required to address immediate bottlenecks and support the long-term goal of making Cyprus more attractive and livable, TechIsland said, before concluding: "Today’s conversation reaffirmed the value of bringing different perspectives together. Thank you to all participants for contributing your expertise and helping us collectively explore solutions for a more sustainable Cyprus."
