Goat and sheep farmers must adopt strategic approaches to overcome seasonal challenges and meet the growing demand for Halloumi, says Stavros Stavrou, president of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry and chairman of the Monitoring Committee for Halloumi Production.
Halloumi holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning only approved producers in Cyprus can market the cheese under that name.
Recent reforms, supported by significant government incentives, aim to address long-standing industry issues while ensuring sustainability and growth.
The government-established committee has implemented measures to tackle persistent challenges. These include incentives to increase sheep and goat milk production, efforts to stabilize costs, and policies ensuring that all farmers’ milk is utilized by cheese producers. Key initiatives involve adjusting headage subsidies to reward higher productivity and enforcing stricter milk delivery regulations to maintain fair competition.
Stavrou highlighted the crucial role of exports in sustaining demand for Halloumi, emphasizing the necessity of a stable milk supply. However, weather-related delays in animal births and rising meat prices have temporarily reduced milk production. To counter this, the committee extended February quotas by 15%, ensuring optimal use of available milk without overburdening small and medium-sized cheese producers.
Despite these efforts, some farmers have protested the committee’s decisions. Stavrou dismissed these demonstrations as unwarranted, stressing that constructive collaboration, rather than disruptions, is key to progress. He warned that such actions could undermine the Halloumi label, a cornerstone of Cyprus’ leading agri-food export.
The committee will reconvene in mid-February to reassess milk production levels. Stavrou reaffirmed the shared commitment to maintaining Halloumi’s global reputation, expanding exports, and supporting farmers’ livelihoods. “This is the time for farmers to use the tools and resources available to them. The future of Halloumi depends on their efforts,” he said. [Kathimerini Cyprus]
Source: Ekathimerini.com
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