Blow to Cypriot Halloumi Exports from Occupied Territories

Australia has decided to remove Cyprus from the list of countries considered free of foot-and-mouth disease, due to reports of outbreaks in the occupied territories. The decision, effective from November 8, 2025, will have significant economic consequences for Cypriot halloumi exports to Australia, estimated at around €15 million annually. The measure allows the import of only halloumi that has matured for at least 30 days and meets specific acidity limits, significantly restricting the amount that can be exported. There are concerns that other countries may follow Australia's example, further worsening the situation. The Cypriot government acknowledges that the problem lies in the occupied territories, but the consequences affect the entire Republic of Cyprus. It has already requested assistance from the European Union, resulting in the dispatch of a team from the EU Veterinary Emergency Team to assess the situation. Halloumi importers and producers are in a state of waiting, counting the potential losses. Shipments already en route to Australia are being examined on a case-by-case basis, with the risk of re-export or destruction remaining open. The situation is fluid and requires immediate action to protect Cypriot exports. The Australian decision was based on strict biosecurity protocols and aims to protect Australian agriculture from the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. Cyprus is being called upon to take immediate measures to prove that the disease has not spread and to renegotiate the terms of halloumi imports into Australia.