The government will make decisions regarding halloumi in a broad consultation with all involved stakeholders after February 21, when the decision of the European Court on the halloumi appeal will be issued, announced the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Maria Panayiotou.
In statements following a meeting today between representatives of goat breeders and the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, in the presence of the Minister of Agriculture, Ms. Panayiotou characterized the discussion as productive, stating that they carefully listened to the problems and requests of goat breeders.
She added that it was agreed for goat breeders to submit their written proposals by next Friday on how to increase the production of goat milk.
She mentioned that the Ministry already has a series of measures through the Rural Development program but is also working on additional ones.
She also referred to a meeting with all involved parties under the President of the Republic aimed at making decisions on the matter.
“After the court’s decision, which we expect on February 21, the President of the Republic will convene a meeting in the presence of all stakeholders in the halloumi production sector, including cheesemakers, cattle farmers, and goat breeders, where the decisions of the government will be announced,” said the Minister.
On behalf of goat breeders, Sotiris Kadis thanked the President for meeting with them and listening to their problems.
He stated that they are looking forward to the meeting with the involved stakeholders and mentioned that they will submit written proposals to the President.
When asked if they are satisfied with the recent agreement with cheesemakers regarding the quota of goat milk in halloumi, Mr. Kadis mentioned that they are waiting to discuss the matter at the meeting after February 21.
In response to a question about the feasibility of the goal to increase goat milk production to raise the quota in halloumi, Mr. Kadis stated, “I believe so,” adding that they will send their proposals to the President.
