Cypriot goat and sheep farmers request emergency financial aid due to foot-and-mouth disease restrictions

The Union of Goat and Sheep Farmers’ Producer Groups in Cyprus has sent a formal request to Minister of Agriculture Maria Panayiotou seeking emergency financial assistance. Farmers state that measures implemented to prevent and control foot-and-mouth disease have caused severe financial strain on the dairy sector. The primary economic impact stems from restrictions on animal movement, which have prevented the timely sale of lambs and kids. This logistical delay has led to an accumulation of livestock, resulting in increased feed costs, higher labor requirements, and additional operational expenses. Union president Sotiris Kadis emphasized that these rising costs are not matched by revenue, as prices for livestock have actually declined. Producers acknowledge the necessity of biosecurity measures for animal and public health but argue that the current financial burden is unsustainable. The group warns that without state intervention, the viability of many farms and the production of Halloumi PDO are at significant risk.