PEO Sounds the Alarm over Larnaca Port Situation and Demands Return of State Management

The Pancyprian Federation of Labour (PEO) has expressed serious concern over the current management of Larnaca Port. According to the union, prolonged uncertainty, lack of clear decisions, and absence of political will from the government pose a threat to public interests, the economy, and the local Larnaca community.

PEO emphasizes that the model of transferring port management to private companies, applied over the past two decades, has proven ineffective. During these years, the infrastructure reportedly did not receive proper development, and the state effectively lost revenues that could have been generated from port operations.

The union is particularly alarmed by discussions about the possible return of port management to Kition Ocean Holdings, with which the contract was previously terminated due to non-fulfillment of obligations. PEO calls such a scenario paradoxical and provocative.

According to the Federation, after the port management temporarily transferred to the Cyprus Ports Authority, the port generated around 10 million euros in profit in 2025 alone — a figure that sharply contrasts with the results of the private management period.

PEO also criticizes privatization examples of other ports, particularly Limassol, calling them negative, and opposes involvement of external entities, such as the Greek fund TAIPED, fearing that it would lead to full privatization and effective sell-off of the port.

The Federation insists on:

• immediate and permanent transfer of full management of Larnaca Port to the Cyprus Ports Authority;
• ending the “temporary solutions” regime;
• moderate and phased infrastructure development — building repairs, equipment updates, and improved conditions for cruise ships and cargo handling.

PEO calls on the government to stop wavering and make clear decisions in the interests of society and the city of Larnaca.