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 supermarket/online food deliveries to 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 and Instagram pages, and an increased social media presence. Cypriots are becoming accustomed to online financial services for routine transactions rather than walking into their local bank branch.  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 Government launched its centralized government portal  in  July 2022.  and now offers more digital services and information through the Web.

Area Administered by Turkish Cypriots:

E-commerce is limited but growing.  Online banking services are advanced, as competition is fierce from Türkiye-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.