Cyprus government announces support measures for professional fishers

On September 10, 2026, during the 1st Fish Festival at Liopetri River, the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Christos Senekis, detailed ongoing government support for Cyprus’s professional fishing sector. Since April 2024, 80 fishing vessels have been upgraded through grant schemes that now cover 100% of eligible costs, eliminating the need for private contributions for small-scale coastal fishers.

Financial support is also provided to mitigate losses caused by dolphins and other protected marine mammals. Since the launch of this compensation plan in 2025, approximately 300 fishers are supported annually, with €1 million paid out so far. The government projects total support to reach €4 million by 2029. Additionally, authorities are implementing measures to boost fishers' incomes, including compensation for temporary suspension of activities and financial incentives for the collection and removal of invasive pufferfish.