Foot-and-mouth disease impacts meat market
Lamb prices in Cyprus have increased by around 10% following the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the island’s livestock sector. With Easter approaching – a period when over 50,000 lambs and goats were consumed last year – demand pressures are mounting.
Kostas Leivadiotis, president of the Pan-Cyprus Butchers’ Association, told Phileleftheros that lamb now trades at roughly €12 per kilo, up about €1 from pre-outbreak levels. While some tightness has emerged in the meat market, he noted it remains limited for now. Prices for pork and beef are stable.
Movement restrictions complicate supply
Restrictions imposed to contain the virus have made it harder to move and slaughter animals. Leivadiotis said authorities are being urged to provide solutions allowing easier transport and slaughter of animals destined for consumption.
Imports from Lesvos have also been affected, as cases of FMD there have halted exports to Cyprus. Alternative sources are being sought to maintain supply. Leivadiotis emphasised the importance of following expert guidance, including rapid vaccination and culling measures, to control the outbreak.
Annual livestock and consumption figures
Cyprus slaughters around 700,000 animals each year, including roughly 20,000 cattle, 450,000 pigs, and 200,000 lambs and goats. Additional demand is typically met through imports, which are now restricted due to FMD concerns.
Halloumi production remains stable
Michalis Koullouros, representing the Cheesemakers’ Association, said halloumi exports and prices remain unaffected. Milk supplies are sufficient for continued production and exports, with halloumi valued at €400 million annually, €350 million of which comes from exports. Around 80% of the island’s milk production goes into halloumi.
Koullouros noted that culling of animals could affect prices depending on scale and species, but if the virus is contained, production and exports should remain manageable. Smaller dairies would be the first to feel any impact if a serious problem arises.
On the PDO halloumi quota timeline, he said no revisions are being considered at this stage. The priority remains containing the virus and supporting livestock farmers to restore production to previous levels.
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