Cyprus

Background information

Type of species farmed (Source: 2023, EUMOFA; 2022, STECF; 2021, Department of Fisheries and Marine Research, DFMR)

Gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax), Meagre (Argyrosomus regius), Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Sturgeon (Acipenser sp.), Marine shrimp (P. indicus & P. vannamei).

Type of production method (Source: 2023, EUMOFA; 2021 DFMR)

In Cyprus, production occurs almost entirely (> 90%) in marine waters, mainly using offshore cages. Negligible amounts of farmed production occur in freshwater culture and / or onshore facilities.

Sector’s size (production and consumption) (Source: 2023, EUMOFA; 2021 DFMR)

Production: 7.862 Tn; 45.050 thousand € (2021, DFMR)
Consumption of fishery and aquaculture products (2021): 27,79 Kg per capita (2023, EUMOFA)
% Variation in consumption 2021/2020: -4%

Trends (past and future) (Source: MNSPA; 2021, DFMR)

Government policy in the aquaculture sector aims at the sustainable and environmentally balanced development of aquaculture to maximise its contribution to domestic fish production, in line with the needs of the local and international markets and by providing high quality and hygiene products that meet the consumers expectations.
Continue to promote, support and monitor the further development of the sector with emphasis in offshore aquaculture. This practice ensures smaller environmental impact and ensures the good state of the marine environment.

Impact of aquaculture in the country’s economy, food market and labour market (Source: MNSPA; 2021 DFMR)

Aquaculture in Cyprus constitutes around 85 % of the total Cypriot fisheries production in both quantity and value, providing around 350 full-time direct jobs and contributing to the creation of hundreds of others in other ancillary professions. Aquaculture is an integral and very important part of the Cypriot fisheries sector and, more generally, of the national wider rural economy. This activity has been the fastest growing primary food production industry in Cyprus over the past 15 years.
Aquaculture products are the third most important product in value of exports from the wider Cypriot primary production sector after potatoes and citrus fruits and thereby contributing significantly to the reduction of Cyprus’ negative trade balance in relation to fishery products. Marine aquaculture accounts for more than 99 % of the total national aquaculture production and also has the greatest potential for growth. In contrast, freshwater aquaculture is restricted by the reduced availability of fresh water and the high operating costs associated with the implementation of water recirculation systems.
In addition, Cyprus is among the top 5 EU countries in terms of the contribution of aquaculture to fisheries production.

Challenges and opportunities (Source: MNSPA)

Challenges:

The recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, adaptation to a changing global environment and the green transition.
To contribute to food security in the Union through competitive and sustainable aquaculture and corresponding markets.

Opportunities:

The development of a sustainable blue economy and the promotion of prosperous coastal communities.
EU funding opportunities
Reduced production of capture fishing.
Applicability and use of new technology with more efficient aquaculture systems.
Differentiation of products.
The transition to sustainable food systems as well as expectations citizens are evolving and bringing significant changes to the food market.

Employment and number of enterprises (Source: MNSPA)

3 on-shore Marine Hatcheries, 1 Shrimp Grow out / Hatchery Unit, 9 Marine off-shore Units, 8 on-shore freshwater aquaculture units.
350 employees

MNSP to develop sustainable aquaculture

Published National Strategic Plan on Aquaculture: Multiannual National Strategic Aquaculture Plan 2021-2030 (Available only in Greek)

Summary in English of the "Published National Strategic Plan on Aquaculture": Multi-annual National Strategic Plan Aquaculture 2021-2030

Relevant Authorities

Applicable Legislation

Applicable Procedures

Aquaculture activity is also regulated by relevant provisions in other legislation, such as the Environmental Authority, concerning the safeguarding of the state and quality of the environment, as well as the Veterinary Services and Animal Protection and Welfare Services on public health issues and the health and well-being of farmed organisms.

Procedure for obtaining a "License for the Establishment and Operation of a Fish Farm" for aquaculture units operating onshore (onshore facilities)

The License to Establish and Operate a Fish Farm is issued based on the Aquaculture Laws 2000 to 2010 and their respective amendments as well as the relevant regulations.
Planning Permit from the Department of Town Planning and Housing.
Department of Environment - Discharge Permit.
License to establish and operate a fish farm by DFMR.
Veterinary License for the Production of Aquaculture Products by the Veterinary Services.

For offshore aquaculture, the legislation on Maritime Spatial Planning and other Related Matters shall also apply

License to Establish and Operate a Fish Farm is issued based on the Aquaculture Laws 2000 to 2010 and their respective amendments as well as the relevant regulations.
Environmental Approval by the Department of the Environment.
Permit for the use of marine space from the Council of Ministers (the proposal is prepared and submitted to the Council by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment).
License for the Establishment and Operation of a Fish Farm by DFMR.
Veterinary License for the Production of Aquaculture Products by the Veterinary Services.

National associations and networks

Cyprus Mariculture Association

Contact Details

Name and surname: Constantinos Moustakas

Position held and name of the organisation: Fisheries and Marine Research Officer

Email address: cmoustakas@dfmr.moa.gov.cy

Telephone number: +357 22807850