Cyprus unveils €610.9 million 12-year plan to rebuild livestock sector after disease outbreak
The Cyprus government has announced a twelve-year plan valued at €610.9 million aimed at revitalizing the livestock sector devastated by a recent foot and mouth disease outbreak. Over 84,000 animals were culled during the crisis, exposing longstanding issues within the industry, according to the scientific committee led by Stavros Malas. The plan prioritizes improving breeding, management, biosecurity, and the establishment of new livestock units.
Key proposals include a €372.2 million investment to double sheep and goat milk production, €134 million for enhancing cattle farming with fewer but more productive herds, and €41 million to improve biosecurity and fencing. An immediate €30 million emergency package was also proposed to support calf, lamb, and kid fattening units and assist farmers relocating or exiting the industry.
Funding will be sought through the EU's upcoming agricultural policy program beginning in 2028, with additional national contributions expected. The plan aims to reduce disease risk by imposing a minimum 300-meter distance between farms and encouraging consolidation among smaller operations. Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis emphasized the introduction of mandatory vaccination for all cloven-hoofed animals to build resilience against future outbreaks.
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