Halloumi Exports from Northern Cyprus Grind to a Halt Due to Middle East War

The military conflict in the Middle East has dealt a serious blow to one of Northern Cyprus's main export products — Halloumi cheese.

According to Meriç Avunduk, chairman of the Dairy Producers Union, about 30 containers of products were sent monthly from the country to the region, 98% of which was Halloumi. On average, this amounts to about 850 tons of cheese per month, valued at $4–4.5 million.

Following the outbreak of war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, shipments have completely stopped. Some previously dispatched containers are stranded at sea and have been unable to reach buyers, meaning exporters cannot receive payment for their goods.

The situation is complicated by the fact that milk production continues daily. According to Avunduk, about 55% of all dairy production is destined for export, so the closure of the largest market creates a serious crisis for producers and farmers.

Companies have already begun renting additional warehouses to store accumulating product stocks, but these are also filling up quickly.

Industry representatives are calling on authorities to urgently develop a new economic policy and support measures, as the crisis may be prolonged.