Cypriot farmers request water management revision for potato crops

On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, representatives from major Cypriot agricultural organizations, including PEK and EKA, held an introductory meeting with the new Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Christos Senekis. The primary focus of the discussion was the mounting pressure on the agricultural and livestock sectors due to severe water scarcity, climate change, and the broader socioeconomic impact of EU policies and global trade agreements, such as the EU-Mercosur deal.

A central point of contention raised during the meeting was the urgent need for a revision of current water management plans. Specifically, farmer representatives requested that the government allocate water from the southern pipeline to support local potato cultivation, noting that no water is currently designated for this purpose. The agricultural unions evaluated the meeting positively, interpreting the Minister's decision to consult with all groups shortly after taking office as a commitment to close cooperation.

The meeting underscored the ongoing difficulties faced by local producers as they navigate the green transition and geopolitical instability. While no immediate government policy shift was finalized, the discussions serve as a starting point for future dialogue regarding resource allocation in response to the island's prolonged water deficit.