Cyprus

Preference for Cypriot lamb ahead of Easter, says Agriculture Minister

By: SigmaLive English

Date:

Strong supply and stable prices

Cypriot Easter products, including local lamb, are widely available and meeting high demand as families prepare for the holidays, Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou said on Thursday. The government’s support package of over €200 million for consumers has also received positive feedback.

Ministry inspections across Nicosia

Ahead of Easter, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment carried out inspections at supermarkets and fruit shops in Nicosia. Minister Panayiotou visited Metro in Platy Aglantzias, Mikropolis in Athalassa, and Dimitrakos fruit store in Strovolos to monitor product availability and quality.

Veterinary Services reports that slaughter numbers remain on par with last year, with minor fluctuations expected as operations continue. Prices have also remained stable, with no shortages observed in the market.

Consumer safety and government support

The Ministry ensures rigorous checks on both perishable goods and animal products, with minimal confiscations, similar to last year. Minister Panayiotou highlighted that the government’s support measures, including VAT reductions on meats, poultry, and seafood, have positively impacted both consumers and vendors.

She emphasised that local products are safe for consumption and encouraged citizens to support Cypriot farmers during the Easter season.

Slaughter and demand data

Veterinary Services Director Christodoulos Pipis stated that around 20,000 sheep and goats and 190 cattle have been slaughtered so far, with demand for Easter expected to reach 35,000–40,000 animals, similar to last year. Confiscations mainly concern cosmetic issues, not food safety.

Consumers are showing a strong preference for Cypriot products, particularly local lamb, despite some imported meat from Greece and Romania.

Slight increases in fruit and vegetables

Artemis Melifronidou, Senior Products Inspection Officer, noted slight price increases in some fruit and vegetables due to recent weather conditions. Overall, product variety and quality meet consumer expectations.

The Minister also visited the foot-and-mouth disease monitoring zone in Dali to review containment measures and provide support to staff working round the clock, including delivering Easter candles.

Also read: Easter in Cyprus: Festive table costs rise slightly
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