Republic of Cyprus:

The ROC is working to enhance digital skills and help expand e-Commerce on the island.  While in the past individuals and companies were skeptical about using e-Commerce, COVID-19 economic conditions accelerated and significantly increased the use of online services from supermarkets to online food deliveries, and clothing sales and purchases, among others.  The pandemic brought e-Commerce to the forefront and helped Cypriot consumers warm up to the idea faster than anticipated.  While web-based trade remains relatively small, it is steadily growing.  Most companies now have their own websites, Facebook pages, and an increased social media presence. Cypriots are becoming accustomed to online financial services for routine transactions rather than walking into their local branch bank.  The legal framework for e-Commerce is under the authority of the Ministry of Energy, Commerce, and Industry (MECI) with law {L.156(I)2004}, and amendment law {L.97(I)2007}: “Certain Aspects of Information Society Services, Electronic Commerce, and Related Matters” which are based on EU Directive 2000/31/EC. The ROC is in the process of further amending its national legislation to fully harmonize it with the EU Directive above.  The Government is also improving its websites and offers more services and information through the Web, including through its government gateway portal Ariadni.  Moreover, the ROC launched its centralized government portal in early July. 

Area Administered by Turkish Cypriots:

E-commerce is limited but growing.  Online banking services are advanced, as competition is fierce from Turkey-based banks.  Most “government” offices and “ministries” have a website, and some are starting to offer services, mainly in Turkish language.  However, in general the Turkish Cypriot authorities continue to lag behind the private sector in this regard.