Dialogos

Canada and Australia Block Cypriot Animal Products Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Published December 30, 2025, 20:02
Canada and Australia Block Cypriot Animal Products Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Canada and Australia have imposed restrictions on imports of Cypriot animal products due to the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in the occupied territories. Canada prohibits imports of products manufactured after November 14th, effective December 24th, 2025, while Australia remains firm in its decisions. The CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) has placed restrictions on live animals, genetic material, animal products, raw meat, and fresh milk. However, Canada allows the import of products that have undergone heat treatment at 70°C for 30 minutes, which does not affect halloumi exports, as it is cooked at 95°C for 45-60 minutes. Saudi Arabia is also considering an embargo on halloumi imports, which concerns exporters, as over 1500 tons are exported annually. Veterinary services in Cyprus are on high alert and have taken measures to prevent the spread of the disease to the free areas.