Cyprus calls for flexible EU support measures for farmers after 3-year severe drought

Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Maria Panayiotou has briefed the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council on the severe drought affecting Cyprus for a third consecutive year, with losses reaching up to 100% in key production sectors.

She stressed the need for flexible support measures and additional financial tools beyond the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to effectively support the EU agricultural sector.

According to a press release from the Ministry, the main issues discussed at the Council included market conditions and supply in the EU, as well as the sustainability and production of proteins for food and animal feed.

During the debate on market conditions, Panayiotou pointed out that Cyprus is experiencing its third consecutive year of drought, resulting in total losses in several production sectors and affecting all crops. “This situation puts the viability of agriculture at serious risk,” she said. In this context, she called for the design of flexible support schemes using additional funding tools outside the CAP framework.

On the topic of protein production, Panayiotou noted that the EU should invest in initiatives that cover the full spectrum of protein utilization. She also pointed out Cyprus' significant dependence on imported protein-rich foods, especially animal feed, and noted the importance of trade diversification to avoid new dependencies on third countries.

On the sidelines of the Council meeting, Panayiotou held a bilateral meeting with Ireland’s Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon.

The two Ministers exchanged views on shared issues of interest, particularly the planning and smooth transition between the upcoming consecutive EU Council Presidencies of Cyprus and Ireland in 2026. Heydon invited Panayiotou to Ireland to further strengthen cooperation in agriculture.