Scientific committee presents recovery plan for Cypriot livestock sector

Professor Stavros Malas, head of the Special Scientific Committee for the Recovery and Reconstruction of Cypriot Livestock, presented a 12-year action plan at the Presidential Palace on September 11, 2026. The plan aims to modernize the sector and improve biosecurity following a devastating outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, which exposed systemic weaknesses, including disorganized unit placement and inadequate strategic planning.

The recent outbreak affected 121 livestock farms, leading to the culling of 84,133 animals, including 56,632 sheep and goats, 24,483 pigs, and 3,018 cattle. Data revealed that 102 of the affected units were concentrated in seven high-density epidemiological zones. To date, €17,288,069 has been paid in compensation to farmers. The loss of milk production from these units reached 16.23 million liters.

The proposed strategy emphasizes genetic improvement, the establishment of model farms, and rational land use. Following initial discussions with the President of the Republic and relevant ministers in late August, the current presentation serves to initiate a dialogue with stakeholders, including agricultural organizations and business chambers. The government and the Ministry of Agriculture are now tasked with reviewing these findings to determine the next stages of implementation.