Cyprus expands financial support for small-scale coastal fishers

Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Christos Senekis announced that 80 fishing vessels have been modernized since April 2024. Speaking at the 1st Fish Festival at Liopetri River, Senekis highlighted that small-scale coastal fishers can now access grant schemes covering 100% of eligible costs without private co-financing requirements.

The government also maintains a compensation plan for damages caused to catches by dolphins and protected marine mammals. Since the scheme's launch in 2025, €1 million has been paid to approximately 300 professional fishers annually, with total support projected to reach €4 million by 2029. Additional measures include financial aid for temporary suspension of fishing activities and support for the collection and removal of the invasive pufferfish species.

These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to stabilize fishers' incomes and address operational challenges in the sector. The government continues to implement these targeted policies to ensure the sustainability of coastal fishing activities.