**Malas Warns Halloumi Production Faces ‘Systemic Risk’**
Cyprus’ renowned halloumi cheese production is encountering a significant threat, as highlighted by Professor Stavros Malas on Saturday. The professor, who leads the scientific committee responsible for the reconstruction of the livestock sector, emphasized that the excessive concentration of milk output in a limited number of farms poses a ‘systemic risk’ to the industry.
During an interview with CyBC, Malas pointed out that the recent foot and mouth disease crisis has unveiled longstanding vulnerabilities within the Cypriot livestock farming sector. He remarked, “In Cypriot livestock farming we did not plan, we improvised,” indicating a lack of strategic foresight that has led to the current precarious situation.
The professor's comments come in the wake of a government initiative to address these challenges. On Friday, the government presented a comprehensive 12-year plan, amounting to €610.9 million, aimed at revitalizing the livestock sector. This plan, developed under Malas' guidance, seeks to not only restore the industry but also to enhance its resilience against future crises.
Malas explained that the committee's recommendations are focused on maintaining the sector's export orientation while ensuring a more organized framework. Key components of the plan include the implementation of stronger biosecurity measures and improved preparedness for potential disease outbreaks or other disruptions.
The financial allocation within the reconstruction plan is substantial, with €372.225 million earmarked for sheep and goat farming, €134 million designated for cattle farming, and €41 million allocated to bolster biosecurity measures. One of the proposed strategies includes establishing a minimum distance of 300 meters between independent livestock holdings to mitigate the risk of disease transmission.
In response to concerns regarding the re-entry of the virus from the occupied northern areas of Cyprus, Malas stated that the risk would diminish as long as vaccination efforts continue and illegal animal trade is curtailed. However, he emphasized that vaccination would remain a crucial component of the sector's defense for many years to come.
Malas' insights reflect a broader recognition of the need for a systematic overhaul of the livestock sector in Cyprus. The foot and mouth disease crisis has not only highlighted existing issues but has also underscored the importance of proactive measures to safeguard the future of halloumi production and the overall livestock industry.
As the government moves forward with its ambitious reconstruction plan, stakeholders in the livestock sector are urged to adapt to the new guidelines and embrace the necessary changes to ensure the sustainability and safety of their operations. The successful implementation of these measures will be critical in preserving Cyprus’ agricultural heritage and its reputation for high-quality dairy products, particularly halloumi, which is a significant export commodity for the island.
The coming years will be pivotal for the livestock sector in Cyprus, as it navigates the challenges posed by past crises while striving to build a more resilient and secure future.