The future of Cyprus’s primary sector, and particularly potato farming, is under serious threat due to repeated reductions in measures under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), according to the president of the Pancyprian Potato Growers Organisation.
Speaking on the television programme Protoselido, Andreas Karyos said continued cuts to Cyprus farmers subsidies could push the sector to the brink, warning that support for Ukraine should not come at the expense of European agriculture.
CAP measures cut by up to 40%
Karyos said a CAP measure applied across Europe has already been reduced by 30%, followed by a further 40% cut, placing farmers at risk of losing crucial funding.
He stressed that Cypriot farmers cannot afford to lose even what he described as the “crumbs” they currently receive through subsidies from the Cyprus Agricultural Payments Organisation (KOAP), as these funds are essential to keeping farms viable.
Subsidies vital for farmers and the environment
According to Karyos, the €20–25 per decare (1,000 m²) provided by the European Union through KOAP is critical not only for the survival of potato growers but also for environmental reasons.
“These payments help keep agricultural land cultivated so that periods of rainfall translate into productive crops, and allow farmers to cope with extremely high production costs,” he said, noting that potato growers face mounting expenses that threaten the sustainability of the crop.
Ukraine support should not sacrifice agriculture
Karyos also expressed concern over discussions at EU level regarding military support for Ukraine, arguing that funding should not be diverted from the agricultural sector.
“We cannot allow agricultural production in member states to collapse in order to support Ukraine,” he said. “They must find other ways to support Ukraine.”
Drought and lack of clarity add pressure
Beyond subsidy cuts, potato growers are also struggling with drought conditions and unresolved issues related to hail and rain protection schemes.
Karyos said there is no clear picture or meaningful information about support measures for 2025, while only limited assistance has been indicated for 2026.
Warning of collapse in primary sector
If the current trajectory continues, Karyos warned that Cyprus’s primary sector could face extinction.
He said the state must recognise the importance of maintaining agricultural production, rather than focusing solely on the cost of a few million euros required to support it.
Economic impact and consumer prices at risk
Karyos highlighted that around 80% of Cyprus’s potato production is exported, bringing significant revenue into the economy.
If the sector collapses, he warned, Cyprus would not only lose export income but consumers would also face higher prices due to dependence on imported potatoes. He recalled that a similar situation last year, when shortages occurred across Europe, led to sharp price increases.
Support is a necessity, not a luxury
Concluding his remarks, Karyos reiterated that supporting the primary sector is not a luxury but a necessity for the economy, food security and consumers.
Also read: Greece agriculture protests: farmers block roads, ports and airports
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