Republic of Cyprus takes measures to stabilize halloumi production amid foot-and-mouth disease

The Republic of Cyprus has introduced a temporary reduction in the minimum proportion of sheep's milk in the production of halloumi cheese — from 25% to 15%. The decision is aimed at protecting national production and ensuring the uninterrupted export of one of the country's key agricultural products in the wake of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.

According to the government, the measure is purely temporary and will be in effect from May 15 to December 31, 2026. It is designed to support producers and the processing industry, which faced a raw material shortage after large-scale sanitary measures.

Official data shows that sheep's milk production in April decreased by almost a quarter — by 24.6%, to approximately 7.03 million liters. This occurred against the backdrop of forced livestock culling as part of the fight against foot-and-mouth disease. In total, over 40,000 head of small ruminants and about 2,800 head of cattle were destroyed.

Authorities emphasize that the measures taken are necessary to maintain the stability of the supply chain and prevent disruptions in export obligations. Halloumi, which holds Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status in the EU, remains a strategically important product for the Cypriot economy.

The government notes that the decision was made after consultations with the industry and is aimed at balancing sanitary safety, EU requirements, and the actual capabilities of producers under current conditions.

At the same time, it is emphasized that the Republic of Cyprus will continue working on restoring livestock numbers and supporting farmers to return to previous production standards in the medium term and maintain halloumi's position in international markets.