Cyprus Dairy Industry Overview

Cyprus, located in the Eastern Mediterranean, has a notable dairy industry that is recognized for its traditional cheese products, particularly Halloumi. High raw milk prices have been a trend since June 2023, reflecting in the country's dairy economics.

Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

In 2023, Cyprus has approximately 47,000 dairy cattle contributing to an annual milk production of around 235 million liters. The country also boasts about 40,000 dairy goats, which play a crucial role in producing traditional Cypriot cheeses.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

The annual milk processing volume in Cyprus is estimated at 210 million liters. Cheese production is a significant aspect of the dairy industry, with an annual output of approximately 40,000 metric tons. Halloumi cheese stands out as a flagship product with increasing global demand. Additionally, Cyprus produces around 10,000 metric tons of milk powder and whey annually.

Key Enterprises in the Dairy Market

• Charalambides Christis: Known for a wide range of dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt.
• Pittas Dairy Industries: Renowned for Halloumi cheese and traditional dairy products.
• Caramondani Bros: Specializes in dairy production and distribution across Cyprus.

Dairy Farms

Key dairy farms in Cyprus include:

• Athalassa Farm: Known for high-quality dairy cattle and milk production.
• Droushia Farm: Specializes in dairy goat farming and cheese production.

Exports and Imports

Cyprus exports approximately 50,000 metric tons of dairy products annually, with Halloumi cheese being a major export. The country imports around 25,000 metric tons of dairy products to cater to local preferences for diverse dairy goods.

Recent Events in the Dairy Market

Key recent developments include the increase in raw milk prices since June 2023 and efforts to enhance production quality standards for Cypriot Halloumi cheese, aiming to solidify its PDO status internationally. In 2024, there is a rising demand for curd snacks in various European countries including Finland, Denmark, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Cyprus.

Cyprus’s dairy industry continues to evolve, focusing on high-quality standards, expanding market presence, and preserving its traditional dairy farming practices. The country, often celebrated as the birthplace of Halloumi, maintains a rich legacy in cheese-making.

Modified: 2025/03/10

---