Cyprus Courts Japanese Investors as an Emerging Tech Centre
In a concerted effort to position Cyprus as a key player in the realm of international business and technology, Commerce Minister Giorgos Papanastasiou and Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides embarked on a strategic mission to Japan. Their agenda was clear: to present the Mediterranean island not just as a sun-soaked tourist destination, but as an emerging tech centre ripe for investment and innovation.
The duo attended a business forum, a collaborative effort between the commerce ministry, the Chamber of Commerce (Keve), the Cyprus-Japan Business Association, and the Trade Center in Japan. This platform allowed Papanastasiou to highlight the unique benefits that Cyprus offers as a technology hub, including the newly established Business Facilitation Unit designed to streamline the process for companies seeking to set up or grow their presence in Cyprus.
Chief Scientist Skourides took to the stage with a compelling presentation titled “Cyprus as an emerging technology hub,” where he unveiled the ambitious “Cyprus 2035” strategy. His talk covered the advancements in the tech sector, the burgeoning research and innovation ecosystem, and the digital transition strategies that are propelling Cyprus forward. He emphasized the nation’s focus on big data, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, all crucial elements in crafting Cyprus into a regional information powerhouse.
Skourides also shed light on the seven Centres of Excellence within Cyprus, which serve as beacons for startups by offering consulting services, infrastructure access, and technological resources. These centres span diverse fields such as marine research, energy and renewables, health and biogenetics, IT and communications, cultural heritage and augmented reality, space research, and climate and environmental studies.
The presentation was complemented by a panel discussion featuring representatives from Cypriot tech companies like Ideagen Tritan, EFEVRE TECH, and the Cyprus Space Agency. They discussed their innovative contributions and competitive edge in the global market. Additionally, meetings with executives from various companies including REIMEI, ARTEVITE, JAOPS, Kinsui, MANSEISYA, Wargaming, Worldwide Media, and an EU – Japan Centre representative underscored the forum’s success in drawing interest from potential investors.
The event was graced by notable figures such as EU Ambassador to Japan Jean-Eric Paquet and Nobutaka Maekawa of the Japan Trade Organisation, highlighting the international appeal of Cyprus as a burgeoning hub for business and technology. This initiative marks a significant step in Cyprus’ journey towards becoming a nexus for global innovation and entrepreneurship.
