The Cyprus Market Access Day (MAD) 2026 was held for the first time in Cyprus, marking an important event dedicated to strengthening the outward orientation of Cypriot businesses and providing practical guidance on accessing international markets.
The event took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Limassol, and was organised by the Energy Ministry and the European Commission (DG Trade & Economic Security), in close cooperation with the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
In his address, CCCI President Stavros Stavrou stressed that for a small and open economy like Cyprus, international business activity is not a choice but a necessity, as well as a key pillar of growth and resilience. He underlined the importance of European trade policy as a framework of stability and predictability, noting that the true value of EU trade agreements lies in how effectively they can be utilised in practice, particularly by small and medium-sized enterprises.
Welcoming participants, LCCI President Andreas Tsouloftas stated that Limassol plays a pivotal role in the outward-looking development of the Cypriot economy. He also highlighted that, despite increasing challenges in the global environment, there is a strong need to enhance awareness, guidance and the use of available European tools to support businesses in entering new markets.
In his remarks, the Energy Minister Michalis Damianos, emphasised the importance of close cooperation between the state, European institutions and the business community. He noted that initiatives such as Market Access Day bring European trade policy closer to businesses, offering meaningful and practical support in understanding and addressing real trade challenges.
As part of the event, two thematic panel discussions were held. The first, titled “Geoeconomics and the Future of EU Trade Policy,” focused on analysing international and geopolitical developments, as well as the role of European trade policy in supporting business competitiveness and resilience.
The second panel addressed the utilisation of EU Free Trade Agreements by businesses, focusing on practical experience, the benefits, and the obstacles companies face in their implementation.
In addition, targeted presentations were delivered by European Commission officials, showcasing specific EU tools such as the Access2Markets Portal, the Single Entry Point, and the benefits of Free Trade Agreements. These sessions provided businesses with practical guidance on tackling trade barriers and enhancing their export activity.
At the same time, officials from the European Commission, together with representatives from the CCCI and LCCI, conducted two on-site visits to member companies in Limassol, Pambos Pavlou Offset Printers and D. Ellinas Factory Products Ltd, both of which are actively engaged in international trade. The visits aimed to facilitate direct exchange of views and to document the issues and challenges faced by Cypriot businesses in global markets.
The Cyprus Market Access Day 2026 reaffirmed the role of the CCCI as a key institutional link between the business community, national authorities and European trade policy, contributing substantially to enhancing the competitiveness and international presence of Cypriot businesses.
(Source: CNA)
