Controversy over halloumi milk quota reduction

On May 13, 2026, the Cypriot government issued a decree reducing the mandatory proportion of goat and sheep milk in PDO halloumi from 25% to 15%. The Cyprus Cheese Makers Association supports this measure, citing the need to prevent market shortages and protect industry jobs amidst a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak affecting livestock. Conversely, agricultural organizations, including PEK, EKA, and the New Agricultural Movement, have petitioned President Nikos Christodoulides to cancel the decree. These groups argue that the reduction undermines the quality and traditional character of the product. They further question why the quota was lowered while official data shows an increase in total halloumi production. The protesting farmers have also raised concerns regarding the potential unauthorized use of milk powder and the transparency of government monitoring of cow milk usage. They assert that the ad hoc committee on halloumi was bypassed during the decision-making process.