Legal opinion stalls development plans for Larnaca marina

The development plans for the port and marina of Larnaca have faced a significant setback following a legal opinion from the Law Office of the Republic of Cyprus. During a meeting of the Parliamentary Transport Committee on October 22, 2026, representative Rena Papaeti stated that the state cannot directly transfer the marina to the Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA). Because the marina and its land are state-owned, any development must be preceded by an open public tender. The CPA would be required to submit a competitive bid if it wishes to undertake the project.

Transport Minister Evi Tsolaki confirmed that her ministry received this legal advice on October 9. She explained that while the port can be transferred immediately to the CPA, the marina faces legal prohibitions against such a transfer. The ministry previously sought to develop both sites together, but studies now indicate that separate development is necessary for financial viability. The government is currently seeking further clarifications from the Law Office and exploring alternative strategies. The previous agreement with Kition, signed in 2022, was terminated in 2024 due to a failure to provide a performance bond. The Parliamentary Transport Committee is scheduled to reconvene in two weeks to further discuss the matter.