Foot-and-mouth disease is killing cattle and sheep on farms across Cyprus, prompting the government to launch a vaccination programme and warn livestock farmers that strict biosecurity measures are their most important weapon against further spread.
Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou, speaking at a conference on the outbreak, said containing the disease was the government’s overriding concern.
“No one will be left on their own and no sector will be left exposed,” she said. “Protecting production and supporting livestock farmers are a priority.”
Panayiotou said the government was working with trading partners to ensure the crisis does not disrupt exports of halloumi — Cyprus’s most valuable agricultural export.
“All necessary steps have been taken by the Veterinary Services, in coordination with third countries, to protect halloumi exports,” she said.
“Its protection is of decisive importance for the economy, the country’s export capacity, and the international credibility of the Republic of Cyprus.” She added that the EU has confirmed meat and dairy products remain safe for consumption after vaccination.
The minister said government services are working continuously with scientific experts and European institutions to ensure all measures are grounded in scientific evidence.
She added that she would meet agricultural organisations to discuss financial support for affected producers and resolve any technical problems arising in the field.
Pig farmers warn of irreversible damage
Livestock representatives welcomed the open communication with the ministry but voiced sector-specific concerns.
The most stark warning came from Petros Kailas, president of the Pig Breeders’ Association, who said the pig-farming sector faces irreversible damage.
He noted that once vaccination takes place, meat will no longer be eligible for export — a consequence with serious long-term implications for the industry.
He called for continuous updates to producers to prevent the virus spreading further and confirmed that the ministry’s phones are open around the clock.
Sotiris Kadis, president of the Sheep and Goat Producers’ Group, stressed the urgency of financial support for producers hit directly by movement restrictions, while expressing satisfaction with the minister’s commitments. He urged his members to cooperate with the containment effort.
Marios Constantinou, president of the Cheesemakers’ Association, focused on safeguarding the reputation of Cypriot products in international markets, stressing that quality and safety would not be compromised.
Nikos Papakyriacou, director general of the Pan-Cyprian Cattle Breeders’ Organisation, called for a united response, saying the primary sector is currently bearing the full weight of the crisis.