**Cyprus Employment Rises 1.7% in Second Quarter of 2026**
According to the latest data from the state statistical service, Cystat, total employment in Cyprus saw a year-on-year increase of 1.7% during the second quarter of 2026, reaching an estimated 525,167 individuals. This growth reflects a steady recovery in the labor market, following previous economic challenges.
The breakdown of the employment figures reveals that out of the total workforce, 472,254 were classified as employees, while 52,913 were self-employed. This distribution highlights the predominance of traditional employment structures within the Cypriot economy.
The report indicates that the most significant employment gains were observed in several key sectors. Notably, the wholesale and retail trade sector, which includes the repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, experienced a robust increase. Additionally, the construction industry and the arts, entertainment, and recreation sectors also contributed to the overall rise in employment figures.
In conjunction with the increase in employment, Cystat reported a rise in the number of hours worked across various sectors. The total actual hours worked during the second quarter of 2026 were estimated at 246.57 million, marking a 2.2% increase compared to the same period in 2025. This uptick in working hours suggests not only a growing workforce but also an increased demand for labor across the economy.
The sectors that recorded the largest increases in hours worked paralleled those with the highest employment growth, further emphasizing the interconnected nature of these economic indicators. The wholesale and retail trade, construction, and arts, entertainment, and recreation sectors were again at the forefront of this trend.
Overall, the data from Cystat paints a positive picture of the employment landscape in Cyprus, indicating a gradual recovery and growth in various sectors. As the economy continues to evolve, these trends may signal further opportunities for job creation and economic development in the coming quarters.