Serious questions are emerging over Larnaca port controls following allegations that imported animal feed is not being disinfected according to established protocols.
The issue was first raised yesterday in the presence of House President Annita Demetriou. According to a livestock farmer, feed entering the port, including corn and soy, is reportedly loaded onto trucks and transported directly to farms without undergoing the mandated disinfection procedures.
Livestock sector on alert
These claims come amid heightened concern among livestock farmers, as the region faces developments related to foot-and-mouth disease, a highly contagious animal virus that has caused significant impact in neighbouring countries.
The allegations have intensified calls for clarity and stricter enforcement of biosecurity measures to protect Cyprus’ livestock population.
Position of the Cyprus Ports Authority
In a statement yesterday, the Cyprus Ports Authority clarified that it does not hold responsibility for phytosanitary inspections or disinfection processes related to the import of grains and animal feed.
The authority noted that such inspections fall under the jurisdiction of other government services, leaving unresolved questions about oversight and accountability.
Critical questions remain
Despite these clarifications, key questions persist:
- Which authority is ultimately responsible for inspecting and disinfecting imported animal feed?
- Are the required phytosanitary and veterinary checks actually being carried out?
- Is there a traceability system for shipments delivered to farms?
- Have additional preventive measures been implemented in light of regional foot-and-mouth disease cases?
Livestock farmers warn that any gaps in protocol enforcement could endanger the country’s animal population and lead to serious economic consequences.
Also read: 50,000 vaccine doses arrive in Cyprus today
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