The prospects for expanding trade and investment relations between Cyprus and Vietnam, alongside opportunities for cooperation in high-value sectors, were at the centre of the Cyprus–Vietnam Two-Way Trade & Investment Forum, held on Friday, 6 November 2026, at the premises of the CCCI in Nicosia.
As noted in a relevent announcement, the Forum brought together representatives of the government, diplomatic missions, business organisations and research institutions to explore opportunities for closer economic engagement, encourage investment and foster meaningful partnerships between the two countries.
In his opening address, Emilios Michael, Deputy Secretary General of the CCCI, highlighted the complementary strengths of the Cypriot and Vietnamese economies, noting that geographical distance need not be an obstacle to closer business cooperation.
He referred to Vietnam's dynamic economic development and its growing role in international supply chains, while underlining Cyprus' position as a business and investment hub offering access to the European market. He also stressed the importance of making effective use of the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement to translate the existing institutional framework into tangible commercial opportunities.
Michael identified shipping, tourism, professional services, technology and renewable energy as promising areas for cooperation, alongside research, innovation and higher education. He reaffirmed the Chamber's commitment to supporting the internationalisation of Cypriot enterprises and facilitating partnerships capable of delivering lasting mutual benefits.
The Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, H.E. Mr Michalis Damianou, delivered an address focusing on the prospects for strengthening bilateral economic relations and the importance of developing trade and investment ties with dynamic Asian markets.
H.E. Nguyen Phuong Anh, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, provided a strategic outlook on relations between the two countries, with particular attention to opportunities for expanding business cooperation and capitalising on the closer relationship between the European Union and Vietnam.
Marios Tannousis, CEO of Invest Cyprus, presented the country's business and investment landscape, outlining Cyprus' competitive advantages as an international investment destination. His presentation addressed the opportunities arising from Cyprus' access to the European Single Market and its potential as a base for companies seeking to expand their activities across the wider region.
Duong Phuong Thao, Counsellor at the Vietnam Trade Office in Italy, provided an overview of Vietnam's trade and investment environment, highlighting opportunities for Cypriot enterprises to access the Vietnamese market and develop new commercial partnerships.
Research and innovation also featured prominently in the Forum's programme. Andreas Andreou, Business Development & Technology Commercialization Executive at the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence, presented the Centre's activities and the potential for translating scientific research and technological expertise into practical applications through cooperation with industry.
Yiorgos Chrysanthou, General Director of the CYENS Centre of Excellence, outlined the Centre's work and capabilities, highlighting opportunities for international collaboration in research, digital technologies and innovation.
The CCCI attaches particular importance to the further development of economic relations between Cyprus and Vietnam and to the opportunities offered by both markets. Through initiatives such as this Forum, the Chamber seeks to encourage closer engagement between the two business communities, facilitate new partnerships and contribute to the long-term expansion of bilateral trade and investment relations.
