Cyprus’ Minister of Agriculture has started discussions with industry stakeholders to determine the minimum quota for goat and sheep milk in Halloumi cheese, following a five-year transitional period granted by the European Union to comply with PDO regulations.
The new decree, effective July 10, suggests cow’s milk may surpass the combined volume of goat and sheep milk by 2029, despite the PDO standard initially considering cow’s milk optional.
The Ministry’s proposal to stakeholders suggests maintaining the current 25% quota for goat and sheep milk until August 15, 2024.
Subsequently, the proposed decree outlines increasing the minimum ratio of goat and sheep milk to 19% between August 16, 2024, and February 15, 2025, and further to 30% between February 16, 2025, and July 9, 2025. Ministry data indicates milk production fluctuates between 19% and 40% throughout the year.
Goat and sheep farmer groups advocate for a uniform, gradually increasing quota throughout the year, arguing this would enhance product consistency and avoid annual disputes.
They contend the proposed decree lacks sufficient incentives to boost goat and sheep milk production.
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