State aid changes approved for farmers
The livestock compensation framework in Cyprus has been expanded following approval of amendments to an emergency support scheme for livestock farmers affected by outbreaks such as foot-and-mouth disease.
State Aid Commissioner Stella Michaelidou approved the third amendment to the scheme on 11 May, increasing its budget from €23 million to €30.6 million.
The updated framework also includes pig farming units among beneficiaries eligible to receive advance payments for animal culling compensation.
Support for disease outbreak measures
The livestock compensation scheme covers a wide range of measures linked to disease control, including sampling, laboratory testing, animal culling, destruction of animal products, disinfection and vaccination programmes.
It also provides compensation for loss of income due to compulsory quarantine measures and difficulties in rebuilding livestock populations.
Broader eligibility rules
According to the decision, eligible beneficiaries include livestock owners in areas under the control of the Republic of Cyprus, with support targeted at small and medium-sized enterprises. Large enterprises are excluded from the scheme.
The measures are implemented by the Veterinary Services of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment.
Legal framework and EU approval
The decision is based on EU Regulation 2022/2472, which allows certain state aid measures in agriculture to be considered compatible with the internal market under EU competition rules.
The amended scheme is valid from 23 January 2023 until 31 December 2027, and will enter into force upon publication in the Official Gazette of the Republic.
Decision No. 486 has already been published in the Official Gazette dated 15 May 2026.
Ongoing support for livestock sector
The livestock compensation programme aims to strengthen emergency response mechanisms for animal disease outbreaks while ensuring financial stability for affected farmers through direct compensation and income support measures.
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