Greek Cypriot barbers in Nicosia’s walled city are seeking enforcement of operating hours and holiday regulations rather than closure of foreign-owned establishments.
A spokesperson for the Greek Cypriot barbers told Phileleftheros that foreign barbers and hairdressers operate late into the evening and on Sundays and holidays, creating unfair competition.
Only five Greek Cypriot barbers remain in Nicosia’s walled city, whilst approximately 25 foreign-owned barbershops operate in the area, according to local business owners.
The spokesperson emphasised they have no objection to foreigners operating barbershops, noting these operators have passed examinations and registered professionally. Their primary concern centres on compliance with operating hours regulations.
The foreign-owned shops are primarily located on Trikoupi, Arsinois, Voulgaroktonou and Rigenis streets. Officials have reportedly not conducted inspections, citing reduced working hours.
Greek Cypriot barbers have petitioned Green Party MP Stavros Papadouris to raise the matter in parliament under the title “Illegal and uncontrolled operation of barbershops and hairdressers”.
Their letter alleges violations including operating on Thursdays, Sundays and public holidays, extended trading hours until midnight, employment of unregistered staff. It claims most such businesses are operated by third-country nationals, with several apparently owned by the same individual.
The barbers have requested the House Labour Committee investigate and resolve these issues.
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