George Mais, President of the Paphos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, discusses the city’s development, business prospects and the projects expected to shape Paphos over the coming years.
How will the planned Kato Paphos harbour improvements benefit the city?
The works have not yet started, but plans include improving the existing facilities and constructing a breakwater to improve vessel safety. The harbour is an important landmark and a key part of Paphos’ tourism and commercial life.
The improvements should enhance the area’s appearance and visitor experience while creating better conditions for restaurants, leisure businesses and boat operators. More broadly, improved infrastructure will help make Paphos more functional and competitive.
How is digitalisation progressing?
Digitalisation should be treated as a national priority, while local authorities also have an important role in making services faster, more transparent and efficient. Although progress has been made, Cyprus still needs to move faster.
Paphos could use digital solutions to improve licensing, traffic and parking management, public services, tourist information and infrastructure monitoring. Adopting proven international practices could help accelerate this process.
Why is Paphos attracting international companies?
Paphos offers relatively lower business and housing costs, a high quality of life, a safe environment, good education options, an international airport and access to a skilled workforce. These advantages make the city increasingly attractive to international companies and professionals.
To strengthen this trend, Paphos needs better infrastructure, faster licensing, modern office spaces and stronger promotion as a competitive business destination.
How can tourism be further upgraded?
Tourism remains one of the main pillars of the local economy. While the existing product is strong, Paphos cannot afford to become complacent in an increasingly competitive market.
The focus should be on improving the entire visitor experience, including public spaces, cleanliness, transport, beaches, gastronomy and cultural activities. Greater emphasis should also be placed on authentic experiences such as local cuisine, nature, wine, hiking and sports.
Extending the tourist season through conference, sports, cultural, wellness, medical and nature tourism should also be a priority.
Have local government changes affected development?
Municipal progress should be based on strategy, continuity and cooperation rather than on individuals alone. A capable Mayor can provide direction, but institutional stability and proper planning are essential.
The municipality is continuing to improve quality of life while remaining business-friendly. With many major projects completed or nearing completion, attention should now turn to new initiatives, including Apostolou Pavlou Avenue, new schools and projects focused on mobility and urban improvement.
How will Paphos change over the next five years?
Paphos is expected to undergo significant change, with major infrastructure projects reshaping the district. The upgrade of Paphos International Airport and the development of Paphos Marina could strengthen tourism, connectivity, investment and employment.
Road projects, including the airport connection, the Tombs of the Kings–Peyia road, the western bypass and the Paphos–Polis highway, will also improve accessibility and support development across the province.
If these projects are combined with digitalisation, better public services, tourism upgrades and support for entrepreneurship, Paphos can become a more modern, functional and competitive city. The key, Mais says, is vision, cooperation and consistency.