The Sheep and Goat Farmers Association of Cyprus has firmly opposed any changes to the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) criteria for halloumi cheese. The group emphasized that the current requirement for sheep’s and goat’s milk to make up at least 51% of the cheese must be strictly enforced to maintain the product’s authenticity and international reputation.

In a statement, the association urged all sector stakeholders to work towards full compliance with the PDO framework by boosting sheep and goat farming and increasing milk production from these animals. They stressed that halloumi’s unique composition and traditional production methods are the foundation of its European protection and cultural significance.

The association rejected proposals for a "mixed PDO halloumi" and asserted that only cheese meeting the established PDO specifications can use the halloumi name. It warned that relaxing standards could undermine family farms, suppliers, and rural communities, while diminishing the agricultural sector’s capacity in Cyprus.