Cyprus warns of potential meat shortage before Easter due to foot-and-mouth disease

The foot-and-mouth disease situation in Cyprus remains tense and is already affecting the meat market ahead of Easter. Industry representatives are warning of a risk of shortages, particularly of lamb and goat meat.

The head of the butchers' union, Costas Leivadiotis, described the situation as unprecedented. According to him, the market is currently in a state of uncertainty, and producers are facing serious difficulties.

One of the main problems remains the lack of information for farmers. At the same time, complications arise at the logistics stage: the transportation and slaughter of animals take place under conditions of limited capacity. There are only two large slaughterhouses and one small one operating in Cyprus, which puts additional strain on the system and affects supplies.

Experts note that the issue is not only the availability of animals but also whether they can be processed and delivered to the market in time.

At the same time, pork prices are expected to remain stable — a decision has already been made for the mass slaughter of about 300,000 animals to stabilize the situation.

Authorities also warn that the epidemic could affect not only supply but also demand. Amid the uncertainty, some consumers may switch to alternative products, specifically chicken. Poultry stocks are already being analyzed to predict possible price changes.

In addition, specialists are monitoring the dairy situation, as disruptions in livestock farming could affect the entire supply chain.

Rising fuel prices are also putting pressure on the market, increasing production costs.