Cyprus–India Summit in Mumbai: Focus on Investment and Access to the EU Market

A joint Cyprus–India business summit was held in Mumbai, bringing together more than 450 investors, entrepreneurs, and company executives. The forum served as a platform for direct dialogue and discussion of specific cooperation projects.

The event was organized by IMH and Invest Cyprus. The active participation of representatives from India’s financial and institutional sectors confirmed the growing interest in Cyprus as a stable European jurisdiction for investment and doing business.

According to representatives of PwC Cyprus, Indian companies are increasingly considering Cyprus as a reliable base for entering the European Union market. The two countries have complementary economies: Cyprus provides access to the single European market, while India remains one of the fastest-growing markets in the world.

Particular interest is focused on technology (including AI and R&D), financial services, investment funds, shipping, energy, and tourism. Among Cyprus’ key advantages are the double taxation avoidance agreement, a legal system based on English law, and the widespread use of the English language.

In the coming years, emphasis will be placed on strengthening Cyprus’ role as a platform for Indian business within the framework of a future EU–India free trade agreement.

During the discussions, practical issues were addressed — the establishment of holding companies, the operation of investment funds, cross-border taxation, and the placement of European headquarters.

Bank of Cyprus introduced a special unit to serve Indian clients — the International Business Unit (IBU). The bank noted that interest from Indian companies increased significantly after the visit of India’s Prime Minister to Cyprus in 2025.

Lawyers emphasized that Indian companies are taking a pragmatic approach, focusing on compliance, business structure, and operational presence. Additional predictability for investors is expected to be ensured by the new law on the screening of foreign direct investment.

Following the summit, it became clear that the interest is not merely declarative but practical. The next step is finalizing deals and launching joint projects.