Cyprus' construction industry is facing a serious labour shortage. The Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK) has urged the government to take immediate action, warning that the staffing crisis is already causing delays to construction projects, driving up building costs, and making affordable housing programmes more difficult to implement.
The issue was discussed during a meeting between ETEK representatives and Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou. In addition to the shortage of workers, the participants addressed construction site safety, training opportunities for young engineers, and reforms to the licensing system for tower crane operators.
Which workers are in short supply?
According to ETEK, construction companies are currently experiencing an acute shortage across almost every category of worker. The greatest demand is for:
- steel fixers;
- formwork carpenters;
- skilled construction workers;
- site foremen;
- construction supervisors and site managers.
As a result of the labour shortage, project completion times are increasing while developers' costs continue to rise. This is affecting not only the price of new housing but also the implementation of energy-efficiency renovation projects, infrastructure development, and the construction of public facilities. Experts note that construction remains one of the key sectors of the Cypriot economy, providing employment for thousands of people and supporting the growth of the real estate market.
What solutions does ETEK propose?
The Chamber is urging the government to accelerate measures aimed at attracting more workers. Its main proposals include:
- speeding up and fully digitalising the processing of work permit applications for specialists from third countries;
- conducting a comprehensive assessment of labour market needs;
- raising the profile of technical professions through modern educational programmes and professional standards;
- encouraging more young people to pursue careers in construction.
According to ETEK, simplifying the recruitment process for foreign workers would help address the most critical labour shortages much more quickly.
Construction site safety and support for young engineers
Occupational safety was another major topic discussed during the meeting. ETEK believes that workplace safety should not be treated as a mere legal obligation but as an essential element of construction quality and professional culture. The participants also discussed extending the practical training programme for young architects, civil engineers, and electrical engineers, which is funded by the European Social Fund. According to the Chamber, the programme has proved highly successful in helping graduates secure employment and adapt to their professions, and it should therefore continue under the next funding cycle.
ETEK also proposes revising the current licensing system for tower crane operators. In the Chamber's view, the existing procedure is overly complicated and outdated. It recommends introducing a more modern and streamlined system developed jointly with the Ministry of the Interior and the Cyprus Association of Building Contractors.
Why this matters for Cyprus' property market
Demand for new housing in Cyprus has remained strong in recent years, driven by population growth, tourism development, foreign investment, and the launch of major real estate projects. However, the shortage of skilled workers is becoming one of the industry's biggest constraints. Experts warn that unless the labour shortage is addressed in the near future, the construction of new residential developments, commercial properties, and public infrastructure will become increasingly expensive and take longer to complete. This could lead to further increases in property prices and reduce housing affordability for people living in Cyprus.