Report | May 21, 2026
Putting small-scale fishers first: Securing Cyprus’ coastal waters for sustainable fishing
Cyprus’ territorial waters are ecologically and economically significant. They host biodiverse habitats, like seagrass meadows and coral communities, encompass key breeding grounds for marine species, including sea turtles and migratory fishes, while also underpinning fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, coastal recreation, and other blue economy activities. In 2022, Cyprus’ blue economy generated an estimated €1.8 billion in Gross Value Added and employed nearly 56 000 people, with coastal tourism accounting for the large majority of value added and jobs. Furthermore, small-scale fishers account for 95% of the Cypriot fishing fleet and employment, and primarily depend on inshore and nearshore waters.
These waters are also under mounting pressure from human activities. Climate change, habitat degradation, declining fish populations, marine litter, invasive species, and coastal development are affecting the condition of ecosystems and the viability of small-scale fishing operations. For an island economy that is highly dependent on coastal tourism, both protecting the health of marine ecosystems and strengthening their resilience is therefore not only an environmental priority but an economic necessity.

