Northern Cyprus faces a shortage of cattle — sharp rise in live weight and meat prices worries butchers

In Northern Cyprus, there is a significant increase in the prices of live cattle and meat, causing serious concern among butchers. According to the Butchers' Association, the price of a kilogram of beef has reached 1,000 Turkish lira, and the price of chunk meat ("kushbashi") — 1,200 lira. Meanwhile, the live weight of cattle has increased by approximately 50% over the last two months.

Butchers note that they face difficulties not only in purchasing animals but also due to excessive demands from farmers. According to them, producers constantly inflate prices, making purchases unprofitable.

The Butchers' Association has appealed to the government to take urgent measures. Among the proposals are meat imports, as well as planning production and distribution of animals according to real demand and market conditions.

In an official statement, the Association said that its representatives have already met with Prime Minister Ünal Üstel and Economy Minister Olgun Amcaoğlu. At the Council of Ministers meeting, butchers provided detailed information about the current situation.

A particular problem is that the number of dairy animals (females producing milk) remains stable, while the number of heads intended for slaughter and sale to butchers has significantly decreased. This exacerbates the market shortage.

Butchers also point out the lack of a clear price regulation system. Previously, the price of a live bull was agreed at 200 lira per kilogram, but already at the beginning of August, producers stated that the fair price should be 240 lira, and shortly after, the price rose to 300 lira per kilogram.

According to the Association, the government has not yet taken specific measures or presented a plan for further actions. At the same time, butchers accuse some producers of speculation and emphasize that it is no longer possible to remain indifferent to the situation.

The Association calls on the authorities to intervene as soon as possible, find a balance between the interests of farmers and consumers, and prevent the residents of Northern Cyprus from having to purchase meat from outside the country due to shortages and high prices.