Infrastructure and capacity project planned for Famagusta Free Zone

A project to improve infrastructure and increase capacity will be developed at the Famagusta Free Zone, with the aim of expanding production, exports and transit trade. Economy and Energy Minister Hasan Taçoy identified problems with electricity, roads, water and customs procedures as among his priorities to resolve.

During a visit to the Famagusta Free Port and Zone Directorate, Taçoy received information from officials about ongoing work. Discussions covered the current situation of businesses in the area, investors’ expectations and infrastructure projects. Bureaucratic obstacles faced by investors were also on the agenda.

Production and trade ambitions go beyond storage

Taçoy said the Free Zone’s role should not be limited to storage, adding that the aim was to make it a centre for production, exports and transit trade. Referring to the zone’s importance to the TRNC economy, Taçoy said: “This is the way for the TRNC to move beyond its limited domestic market.”

Taçoy announced that a project would be prepared to increase existing capacity and address infrastructure shortcomings, describing stronger infrastructure as a step that would support investors’ activities. He also said they had adopted an approach to management that supports production and speeds up decision-making.

Employees’ requests also discussed

During the visit, Taçoy also met public-sector staff working in the area and received information about working conditions, problems they faced and employees’ requests. He said staff motivation was directly linked to service quality, and that the necessary steps would be taken to resolve the issues raised with him.