Cypriot livestock industry faces severe economic strain from foot-and-mouth disease restrictions

A delegation from the Pancyprian Union of Livestock and Meat Trade Representatives met on September 10, 2026, with the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Christos Senekis, to discuss the ongoing impact of foot-and-mouth disease containment measures. The representatives expressed concerns regarding the severe operational and economic consequences that restrictive policies have imposed on the supply chain and trade of livestock across the country.

During the meeting, stakeholders identified themselves as the most affected sector in the livestock and meat supply chain. The union highlighted that the current preventive measures have created significant logistical challenges, hindering standard business operations. While the industry remains committed to following European safety regulations, the representatives emphasized that the current situation is placing an unsustainable burden on businesses. The discussion focused on finding ways to mitigate these disruptions while maintaining necessary health protocols.