**Cyprus Faces Major Labour Gaps in Tech and Tourism Sectors**
Cyprus is grappling with significant labour shortages across various sectors, particularly in technology, tourism, and healthcare, according to the EURES Labour Shortages and Surpluses Report 2025 published on Monday. The report indicates that in 2024, the island recorded 63 occupations with labour shortages and 11 with surpluses, highlighting the pressing need for skilled workers in critical areas.
The most acute shortages are observed in healthcare and digital technology roles. Professions such as nurses, midwives, and medical imaging technicians are among the hardest hit, reflecting a broader trend of increasing demand for health services due to an ageing population. The report underscores that the healthcare sector is facing challenges similar to those seen across Europe, where rising demand is outpacing the supply of qualified professionals.
In addition to healthcare, the technology sector is also experiencing severe labour gaps. Key roles such as information and communications technology sales professionals, systems analysts, software and applications developers, and web and multimedia developers are in high demand. This shortage is particularly concerning for Cyprus, which has been positioning itself as a tech hub in the region.
The tourism sector, a cornerstone of the Cypriot economy, is not immune to these challenges. Moderate shortages have been recorded in various roles linked to tourism, including restaurant managers, chefs, and wait staff. The report highlights that the demand for skilled workers in these areas is crucial for maintaining the quality of services that attract millions of visitors to the island each year.
The construction and industrial trades are also facing shortages, with professions such as builders, electricians, and heavy goods vehicle drivers in high demand. This trend reflects the ongoing construction activities and infrastructure projects that are vital for supporting Cyprus' economic growth.
Interestingly, while Cyprus faces these shortages, the report notes that there are also occupations with labour surpluses. However, the number of such roles is significantly lower, indicating a mismatch in the labour market. This disparity is not unique to Cyprus; it is a pattern observed across various European Union member states. The report reveals that 98% of occupations experiencing shortages in at least one country also show surpluses in another, highlighting the uneven distribution of labour across the EU.
The report attributes these imbalances to several structural barriers, including limited awareness of job opportunities abroad, challenges in recognising professional qualifications across borders, language barriers, and wage disparities. These factors hinder cross-border labour mobility, which could otherwise help alleviate some of the shortages.
To address these pressing issues, the report calls for enhanced cross-border labour mobility within the EU. It recommends simplifying the recognition of qualifications and reducing administrative barriers that currently impede the movement of workers. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of improving job quality and investing in vocational training and upskilling programmes to better prepare the workforce for the demands of the evolving job market.
The findings of the EURES report provide a detailed snapshot of the structural imbalances in the labour market, with clear implications for Cyprus' economy, which is heavily reliant on both technology and tourism. As the island continues to navigate these challenges, stakeholders across sectors will need to collaborate to develop effective strategies that not only address current labour shortages but also prepare for future demands in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
In conclusion, the EURES Labour Shortages and Surpluses Report 2025 serves as a critical reminder of the need for a proactive approach to workforce development in Cyprus. By addressing the identified gaps and fostering a more adaptable labour market, Cyprus can enhance its competitiveness and ensure sustainable economic growth in the years to come.