Questions are mounting over the government’s sudden decision to hand over the management of Larnaca port and marina to private operators for five years, a move that caught local stakeholders by surprise.
Despite being sidelined by this decision, the Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA) submitted a written proposal worth €86 million for the port’s development just one day after the Cabinet’s announcement.
The proposal, seen by Phileleftheros, includes plans for both the port and marina development. Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras questioned why the proposal was not considered. “The Transport Minister’s position is that the Ports Authority cannot operate Larnaca port because it will be handling developments in Vasiliko and Polis Chrysochous. However, there is a written proposal from the Ports Authority that should at least be examined. We’re looking for a manager who won’t invest anything, while we have state services with resources willing to proceed with development,” Vyras told the newspaper, indicating that the city would strongly oppose the government’s decision.
The Cabinet’s decision was announced on November 28 by Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades, who stated that private operators would manage, operate and maintain the port and marina for five years or until investment projects are completed.
The CPA was authorised to continue managing the port temporarily until December 31, 2025, or until a private operator is found.
Despite the government’s move to block the CPA’s previously announced development plans, the Authority formally submitted its proposal through the e-Consultation platform on November 29. The CPA emphasised its 50 years of port management expertise and trained personnel, arguing it could implement the project faster than a private operator.
The development plan comprises three phases:
- Phase one (€9.42m): Infrastructure upgrades including road network restoration, lighting improvements, and warehouse renovations
- Phase two (€40m): Construction of a new 500-metre quay wall on the western side
- Phase three (€37m): Southern quay extension and new passenger terminal construction
The proposal also includes potential marina developments through public-private partnerships, though these were not costed.
The CPA highlighted its advantageous position in securing EU funding for developing Larnaca port according to EU green port standards.
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