Filenews 30 December 2025 - by Angelos Nikolaou
An extremely difficult situation for Cypriot livestock farming and exports has been shaping up in recent days, as the detection of cases of foot-and-mouth disease in the occupied areas has caused a domino effect of international restrictions.
After Australia, Canada also put the entire island under strict surveillance, while information about an imminent embargo from Saudi Arabia is a cause for concern.
The Food Inspection Agency of Canada (CFIA) has announced the imposition of strict restrictions on imports from Cyprus effective from December 24, 2025. The aim of the measures is to protect Canadian livestock from the disease, which is highly contagious in animals with a double-hoofed weapon.
What Canada's measures provide for
Import ban: This applies to fresh meat, unpasteurized milk and dairy products, as well as genetic material.
Certification Requirements: Products collected or slaughtered before November 14, 2025 can be imported, provided they bear the relevant date on official documents.
Exception for Halloumi: According to the current guidelines, halloumi exports to Canada do not appear to be directly affected, as the product is subjected to heat treatment and virus-neutralizing processes, allowing commercial activity for this particular product to continue.
Saudi Arabia: Halloumi Concern
While Canada keeps the window open for halloumi, the news from the Middle East is less encouraging. Saudi Arabia, one of Cyprus' most important trading partners in the region, is reportedly considering imposing a full embargo on halloumi imports. The country's authorities have already informed the Cypriot authorities, causing great concern to Cypriot cheesemakers.
Despite the fact that no case has been detected in the free areas, the Veterinary Services of the Republic are in a state of emergency.
Green Line: Disinfection mats have been installed and 24-hour checks are being carried out at all crossing points to prevent the transport of infected products or animals.
Diplomatic marathon: Nicosia is in constant contact with the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and the European Commission, attempting to convince international partners that biosecurity measures in free areas are sufficient.
"The economic damage from a generalized embargo will be incalculable, especially considering that Australia has already excluded halloumi that does not meet specific acidity criteria," market circles say.
