Ministry of Agriculture meets with potato producers to discuss sector challenges

The Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, met with the President of the Potato Producers Organizing Committee, Andreas Karyos, and industry representatives. The discussion focused on securing additional irrigation water to combat drought and addressing rising production costs caused by international developments. The parties explored methods to support lost income for producers and addressed the use of forest and public (halitiki) land for agricultural purposes. It was agreed that the Department of Agriculture will consult with agricultural organizations and producers regarding cost-mitigation measures. A follow-up meeting involving the Water Development Department will evaluate options for increasing water supply. Furthermore, the Minister requested updates from the Department of Forests to find solutions for forest land utilization. Issues regarding public land use were recorded for review by the relevant government ministries. The Ministry committed to examining all requests promptly to identify the best possible solutions for the sector.