The Shipping Deputy Ministry was created on 1st March 2018 as an autonomous Deputy Ministry, dedicated entirely to the Cyprus Maritime Industry. The Department of Merchant Shipping which was functioning as a distinct entity in the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works since 1977 has been integrated into the Shipping Deputy Ministry. Previously, maritime services were being provided through a function operating under the Department of Ports.

Cyprus is firmly established as a world class international maritime centre, combining both a sovereign flag and a resident shipping industry, which is renowned for its high quality services and standards of safety.

Cyprus fleet ranks among the top leading fleets worldwide and third in the European Union. At the same time, Cyprus has an integrated maritime cluster with more than 150 shipping companies.

The Shipping Deputy Ministry is responsible for the development of maritime activities which include:

• Registration of ships,
• Administration and enforcement of the Merchant Shipping Laws,
• Control of ships and enforcement of international conventions ratified by the Government of Cyprus,
• Protection of the marine environment,
• Vessel traffic monitoring in the sea around Cyprus and information system implementation,
• Monitoring the conditions of living and work on board Cyprus Ships,
• Registration, training and certification of seafarers,
• Control of Coastal passenger vessels and small craft,
• Continuous updating of the merchant shipping legislation and its harmonization with that of the European Union,
• Coordination of the EU Integrated Maritime Policy,
• Administration of the State Aid Scheme for Maritime Transport and the Tonnage Tax System,
• Promotion of Cyprus as an International Registry and a base for international maritime operations