SEDIGEP Orainis Pitsilias-Troodous criticizes fertilizer subsidy measure

The Producer Group SEDIGEP Orainis Pitsilias-Troodous Ltd has expressed strong disappointment regarding the government's recent measures to mitigate high fertilizer costs in Cyprus. In an official statement dated November 14, 2026, and signed by its president, Lambros Achilleos, the group accused the Ministry of Agriculture of failing to support the majority of mountain farmers. According to SEDIGEP, which identifies itself as the only recognized producer group in the Troodos region, the current scheme excludes at least 1,200 active growers while benefiting only about 80 registered recipients.

The group further claims that the announcement of the subsidy has backfired, leading to an increase in retail fertilizer prices rather than a reduction in production costs. SEDIGEP reports that farmers are currently paying more for fertilizers than they were four months ago, even after factoring in the government subsidy. To address these deficiencies, the organization has called for a revision of the policy. They suggest that the government should pivot toward general financial support for both professional and non-professional farmers to combat inflation, rather than tying aid strictly to fertilizer purchases. They estimate that an additional €200,000 is required to provide adequate coverage for the mountain region’s agricultural sector.