A new dimension was given to India-Cyprus economic relations by the President of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCCI), Stavros Stavrou, sending the message that "if you are planning your European strategy today, Cyprus should not be an afterthought, but the starting point."
In his address at the India–Cyprus Business & Investment Summit 2026 organised by the High Commission of India in Cyprus, Stavrou emphasised that India is a “defining force of the 21st century,” with businesses expanding globally, shaping technology, redefining supply chains and influencing capital flows across continents.
In this context, he explained that in an increasingly complex international environment, "stability has become a competitive advantage", noting that Cyprus offers an Anglo-Saxon legal system, full participation in the European Union and the Eurozone, a transparent and competitive tax framework, regulatory credibility and a well-trained, multilingual workforce with experience in cross-border structures.
He stressed that through Cyprus, Indian companies gain access to the single European market of over 450 million consumers, operating within a reliable European regulatory environment, while maintaining flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Stavrou noted that they can set up holding companies, regional headquarters, investment platforms and intellectual property management vehicles in a jurisdiction that understands international entrepreneurship.
He made particular reference to the fact that Cyprus is recognised by India as a Category 1 jurisdiction for Foreign Portfolio Investment, noting that this classification “reflects confidence at the highest regulatory level” and confirms that Cyprus is not just a convenient choice, but a reliable one.
Referring to geo-economic developments, he noted that global trade routes and economic corridors are being redesigned, making special mention of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor, in which – as he said – Cyprus naturally fits due to its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean, its ports and its strong maritime ecosystem. As he underlined, for Indian shipping and logistics companies, Cyprus offers proximity to key routes, maritime know-how and stability.
The President of the CCCI also highlighted the importance of the human factor, noting that the strategy concerns, beyond infrastructure and talent, mobility, quality of life and long-term stability. As he said, Cyprus is a country where international executives can relocate safely, operating in an environment that allows professionals to focus on their work, with conditions that cover the needs of their families.
He clarified that the CCCI does not treat the bilateral relationship as symbolic, but aims for “real transactions, real partnerships and real expansion strategies”, noting that the approach does not concern opportunistic agreements, but long-term relationships. As he mentioned, the Chamber works closely with government authorities, supports investors with practical solutions and connects Indian businesses with reliable local and European partners, remaining active even after the signing of the relevant documents.
Concluding, he noted that the India-Cyprus economic relationship is entering a new phase, with strong foundations and alignment of geopolitical interests, raising the question of who will be the first to seize the opportunities that are emerging. Finally, he referred to developments in the wider region, expressing the hope that a way to de-escalate the situation will be found as soon as possible.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
