3 million euros for fishermen: Cyprus strengthens support for the industry and coastal communities

Since 2023, the government of Cyprus has allocated approximately 3 million euros to support fishermen under the "Sea, Fisheries and Aquaculture" program. This was stated by the Minister of Agriculture, Maria Panayiotou, speaking at the Fish Festival in Polis Chrysochous.

According to her, 71 fishing vessels have been modernized during this time to increase safety and improve working conditions. For the first time, a 100% subsidy has been introduced for small-scale coastal fishermen without the need for their own contribution. "This gives a real chance to those who need it most to invest in their profession," the minister emphasized.

Additional measures are aimed at increasing fishermen's income. For example, compensation for catching silver-cheeked toadfish (pufferfish) has been increased from 3 to 4.73 euros per kilogram — support has already been received by 82 fishermen through 11 collective groups. An annual compensation program for damage caused by dolphins is also being launched, which will benefit about 300 people.

In addition, about 3 million euros are provided for the development of aquaculture, processing, and marketing of products. Larger-scale projects — totaling up to 45 million euros — include fisheries control, data collection, and improvement of the marine environment.

Special attention is paid to the environment. In 2026, new rules for managing plastic waste from fishing gear are planned to be adopted, introducing producer responsibility. As part of the LIFE IP CYzero WASTE project, special equipment collection containers will be installed in six fishing ports, including Polis Chrysochous.

According to Panayiotou, all measures are part of the "blue growth" strategy, which links fisheries with tourism, the economy, and environmental protection.