Turkish Cypriot Dairy Sector Calls for Import Suspension Amid Economic Slowdown

The association of Turkish Cypriot milk producers has made a public appeal for immediate governmental measures to support the domestic dairy sector. This request comes as the region grapples with reduced consumption and broader economic difficulties. One of the proposed measures includes the temporary suspension of milk and dairy product imports, alongside increasing tariffs on such goods to bolster local production.

Currently, around 54,000 individuals in the northern region rely on the dairy sector for their livelihoods, highlighting the potential socio-economic impact of a weakened dairy industry. The association emphasized the importance of these actions not only for economic reasons but also for food security, especially given recent developments in the Middle East.

Parallel to this, the Cypriot cheesemakers association issued a warning regarding the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Detected first in December within a northern livestock unit, the disease has led to the culling of thousands of animals in both the north and the Republic. The disease, while not harmful to humans, adversely affects livestock productivity, particularly in milk and meat output.

Association spokesperson Michalis Koullouros reported that approximately 13,000 animals have already been culled due to the outbreak. He reassured that despite the outbreak, dairy products such as halloumi remain safe for consumption. However, he cautioned that the loss of livestock could lead to a decrease in dairy production capabilities.

The government has been urged to enforce stricter health and biosecurity protocols, especially in areas like the buffer zone in Pergamos where the Republic's control is limited. The suspension of operations in affected livestock units is recommended until full compliance with these protocols is confirmed.