It is now extremely difficult for Cyprus to comply with the requirements of the Halloumi PDO dossier. The transition period ends in 2029, and the minimum quota for goat and sheep milk must reach 51% from the current 15 percent, with the association of goat and sheep farmers emphasizing that the PDO regulation is clear and does not require amendment.

“The regulation is clear. It explicitly states that the regulation applies regardless of quantities. Whatever quantities are available, that’s how much halloumi is produced, and whatever milk is left over—cow’s milk—goes toward Cypriot grilled cheese,” said ^{Sotiris Kadis, President of the Goat and Sheep Farmers’ Association.}

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The issue was also discussed at yesterday’s session of the House Agriculture Committee, where the ministry’s director general presented a 10-point roadmap to address the challenges and boostproduction.

“Among the measures being promoted is a plan to develop 26 large sheep and goat farming units on state-owned land, with more than 800 productive animals per unit.” ^{Andreas Gregoriou, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture:}

The measures also include tightening legislation for those who do not comply with the PDO halloumi specifications, as well as intensifying inspections.

“Of course, there has been a significant delay. These steps should have been taken years ago, but the most important thing was to prevent the market from being manipulated.” ^{Sotiris Kadis, President of the Goat and Sheep Farmers’ Association}

The hot potato regarding halloumi currently lies in the hands of the Minister of Agriculture, who will soon be called upon to clarify whether an amendment to the PDO dossier will be requested or whether the gradualincrease in the quota.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Regarding foot-and-mouth disease, today’s meeting between the Ministry of Agriculture, the veterinary services, and the Legal Service regarding the four cases of livestock farmers who have not yet been compensated yielded no substantial results.

During the meeting, each case was analyzed separately, with the director of the veterinary services requesting written legal assurances from the Legal Service that would guarantee him, as the supervising official, that the compensation will be paid in full compliance with the law.

See the report by Eleni Michael