5 Minute News

Farmers Request Exemption from Foot-and-Mouth Disease Management Policy

May 20, 2026

Farmers in Cyprus are calling for the resubmission of a request to the European Commission for an exemption from the EU policy regarding foot-and-mouth disease. They highlight that the virus has spread to the Limassol district and propose that only sick animals be culled. They warn that without action, Cyprus will lose its livestock sector and the halloumi industry. They also express dissatisfaction with the European Commissioner for Health, asking President Christodoulides to file a complaint against him. They are advocating for increased support to safeguard the livestock industry.