Cypriot farmers oppose changes to halloumi PDO milk ratio requirements

The Association of Sheep and Goat Producers in Cyprus has firmly rejected any proposals to alter the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) specifications for halloumi. The current mandate requires that sheep and goat milk must constitute at least 51 percent of the final product. The association emphasizes that this ratio is essential for the authenticity and international credibility of the product, which is protected by EU regulations. Farmers have criticized the reduction of this quota to 15 percent for the years 2025 and 2026, viewing it as a move to favor cow milk producers. They claim this adjustment threatens the viability of hundreds of family farms and contradicts the transition period granted by the EU, which ends in July 2029. The organization also referenced a recent 2.1 million euro fine imposed on the Pancyprian Organisation of Cattle Farmers (POA) for competition violations. The producers are calling on the government to ensure full compliance with the 51 percent mandate rather than bowing to industrial pressure.