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Ministers scrap tax on bread and coffee to curb living costs

The Council of Ministers has approved a decree extending a zero VAT rate to essential food items, covering bread, baby food, meat, and sugar from October. It is a necessary gesture for a public grappling with rising costs. A new study estimates that the economy has lost over €1 billion due to the long-standing mismanagement and non-arrival of natural gas.

Internal politics are currently preoccupied with the contents of a dinner. Annita Demetriou, president of the opposition DISY party, denied that any 'deal' was made during a recent meal or that the deck was marked. The party has now scheduled its internal candidacy submissions for late October, with elections to follow in November.

A private medical center in Larnaca is testing the limits of local oversight. Despite a Ministry of Health inspection, an ongoing police investigation, and a lack of a license, the facility reportedly continues to offer plasma apheresis services for up to €20,000. Elsewhere, the 'golden passports' trial is expected to resume this month after prosecutors provided explanations regarding new evidence.

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Zero VAT Rate Extended for Essential Food Items

The Council of Ministers has approved a decree to extend the zero VAT rate on essential food items, such as bread, baby food, coffee, milk, meat, and sugar, with the measure taking effect in October. This initiative aims to provide relief to consumers.

DISY Internal Politics and Presidential Election Timeline

Annita Demetriou, President of the Democratic Rally (DISY), has publicly stated that no deal was made during a dinner, addressing claims of a 'marked deck' within the party. DISY has also set a timeline for its internal presidential elections, with candidacy submissions by late October and elections scheduled for late November.

Over €1 Billion Loss from Unreceived Natural Gas

A new study indicates that Cyprus has incurred losses exceeding €1 billion due to its failure to receive natural gas, attributing the immense cost to long-standing mismanagement within the Cypriot economy.

Unlicensed Plasma Apheresis Center Continues Operation

Despite previous complaints, an inspection by the Ministry of Health, and an ongoing police investigation, a center in Larnaca is reportedly continuing to offer plasma apheresis services without the necessary license, with potential costs reaching up to €20,000.

Upcoming 'Golden Passports' Trial and Stylianos Trial Developments

The main trial for the 'golden passports' case is expected to begin later this month, following the defense's acceptance of prosecutors' explanations regarding new evidence. Separately, in the trial related to Stylianos Constantinou's suicide, defense attorneys have challenged a prosecution witness's testimony.

Film 'Salt of the Earth' to Premiere at Short Film Festival

A new 20-minute film titled 'Salt' is scheduled to premiere at the International Short Film Festival of Cyprus, offering an exploration into the history of colonial Cyprus.

Police Report Chaos at Larnaca Apartment Complex

Police and local authorities have confirmed significant and ongoing problems at a Larnaca apartment complex, including instances of tampered utility meters and numerous complaints regarding illegal occupancy.

Cyprus Business News: Wizz Air, Inflation, Tourism, Real Estate

Recent business highlights for Cyprus include Wizz Air launching a new route between Larnaca and Madrid, ongoing discussions about inflation and tourism, the emergence of a new startup in Limassol, and various developments within the real estate sector.

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