Cyprus ministry clarifies compensation methodology for farmers hit by foot-and-mouth disease

The Cypriot Ministry of Agriculture has finalized a 35.6 million euro compensation package for livestock farmers impacted by the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak that began on February 20, 2026. Compensation categories were established by committees appointed by the Director of Veterinary Services, incorporating factors such as market value, breed, genetic merit, age, and productivity. This methodology, developed in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Institute and professional agricultural organizations, is effective retroactively from February 20 until July 31, 2026. Beyond the value of culled animals, farmers receive 100% compensation for confiscated milk and feed, with additional support provided for those seeking to resume operations. While some farmers criticized a lack of direct meetings with President Nikos Christodoulides, the government maintains that the package exceeds European norms by 150% to 200%. Payments are processed through onsite individual assessments by tripartite committees, with the ministry aiming to complete disbursements by the end of May 2026. The government rejected earlier plans for in-kind compensation in favor of direct cash transfers to ensure legal stability and eligibility for EU co-funding.