Politis

Cheese Makers Request Protocols to Ensure Foot-and-Mouth Disease Measures in the Dead Zone

Published March 3, 2026, 14:15
Cheese Makers Request Protocols to Ensure Foot-and-Mouth Disease Measures in the Dead Zone

The Cyprus Cheese Makers Association has sent a letter to the relevant Ministries requesting the immediate implementation of preventive measures to limit the risks arising from recent outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease, especially in areas where control is limited, such as the Dead Zone. Protecting public health, the food chain and the economic stability of the country are considered paramount. The Association requests the recall or temporary suspension of livestock units within or around the Dead Zone (Pergamos area) until their compliance with health and safety protocols is ensured. In addition, it proposes stricter controls at crossing points and intensified monitoring along the Green Line to prevent the illegal trafficking of animals and feed. Particular emphasis is placed on the control of the Pergamos crossing point, due to the residence and activities of the owners of the units outside the areas under the control of the Republic of Cyprus, which makes supervision difficult. The Association stresses that its proposals are based on the principle of prevention and the evidence for the transmission of the virus through the occupied territories. The aim is to shield the production chain, food safety and the reliability of Cypriot products in international markets. The timely and coordinated implementation of preventive measures is deemed necessary to avoid serious consequences for the primary sector and to protect livestock production and cheesemaking.