During the Cyprus‑China Business and Cooperation Forum held on 25 October 2026 at the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KBE) in Nicosia, Chinese Ambassador Yan Giudong disclosed that bilateral trade between the two nations reached $1.44 billion in 2025. The figure represents a robust 26 % increase over the previous year, underscoring the growing commercial synergy between the Mediterranean island and the world’s second‑largest economy.
Key Drivers of the Trade Surge
The ambassador highlighted three Cypriot product categories that are gaining traction in the Chinese market:
- Halloumi cheese: The distinctive semi‑hard cheese is being introduced through specialised importers and gourmet retail chains in major Chinese cities.
- Zivania: The traditional Cypriot spirit, distilled from grape pomace, is finding niche demand among premium beverage distributors seeking Mediterranean authenticity.
- Fruit juices: Concentrated citrus and mixed‑fruit juices, sourced primarily from the Limassol and Larnaca regions, are entering China’s fast‑growing health‑drink segment.
Strategic Initiatives Discussed at the Forum
Representatives from the KBE, the Ministry of Commerce of the Republic of Cyprus, and several shipping and logistics firms outlined a roadmap to sustain the trade momentum:
Enhanced Logistics Infrastructure
Both parties agreed to streamline customs procedures and expand cold‑chain capabilities at Limassol Port, enabling faster, temperature‑controlled shipments of perishable goods such as cheese and juices.
Joint Marketing Campaigns
Cyprus’ Export Promotion Agency will cooperate with Chinese trade fairs to showcase Halloumi and Zivania, leveraging digital platforms to reach Chinese consumers aged 25‑45.
Financial Support Mechanisms
Eurobank Cyprus, as a partner in the dialogue, announced a series of financing packages designed for SMEs that wish to export to China, including export‑credit guarantees and favourable foreign‑exchange rates.
Industry Voices
Stavros Stavrou, President of KBE, remarked, “The $1.44 bn milestone reflects not only the quality of Cypriot products but also the strategic importance of our maritime links. By reinforcing container schedules and improving port handling efficiency, we can accommodate the expected rise in cargo volumes.”
Ambassador Giudong added, “China is keen to diversify its food imports. Cyprus offers a unique blend of Mediterranean heritage and reliable supply chains, which aligns with China’s demand for high‑quality, traceable food products.”
Outlook for 2026 and Beyond
Projections released by the Cyprus Chamber suggest that trade could exceed $1.7 bn by the end of 2026 if current growth trends continue. Shipping operators are preparing to allocate additional slots on feeder services between Limassol and Shanghai, while exploring direct vessel calls to the new deep‑water terminal under construction at the port.
With diplomatic backing, logistical enhancements, and targeted market‑entry strategies, the Cyprus‑China trade corridor is set to become a model of Mediterranean‑Asian collaboration in the maritime and logistics sectors.