Cyprus is facing an increasingly acute labor shortage in the construction sector. This was stated by Stelios Gavriil, President of the Federation of Associations of Building Contractors, during a professional discussion dedicated to the future of the industry.
The expert emphasized that the country needs clear and effective regulation to attract workers from third countries. This involves creating a system that ensures legal employment, equal working conditions, and prevents unfair competition in the market.
Authorities and Business Discuss Solutions
The discussion brought together government representatives, including the Minister of Labour and Social Insurance and the Deputy Minister for Migration, as well as specialists from relevant departments and representatives of the construction industry.
The main issue raised was the inability to deliver both private and public projects on time due to the shortage of skilled workers. Participants discussed challenges related to hiring foreign employees and proposed specific measures to simplify these processes.
Foreign Workers and New Approaches
According to industry representatives, attracting workers from third countries should become a priority in order to quickly address the current shortage and avoid project delays. The possibility of more actively involving asylum seekers in the construction sector was also discussed, but strictly within a clearly regulated system and for a limited period.
Government officials noted that work is already underway to improve migration policy. The main goal is to direct labor migration flows toward supporting the economy and key sectors, including construction.
Outlook for the Cyprus Construction Market
Amid growing construction activity and increasing investment in real estate, the labor shortage is becoming critical. Market participants warn that without systemic solutions, project timelines will continue to expand and costs will rise.
Experts stress that only through dialogue between the government and business can a sustainable development model be achieved. Additional measures are expected to be discussed in the near future to help stabilize the situation and support Cyprus’s construction sector.