ASSOCIATION OF SUPERMARKETS - IMPORTS OF MEAT IF NECESSARY TO CONTAIN PRICES - Filenews 26/2
The possibility even for meat imports, if this is deemed necessary to contain prices, was left open by the Executive Secretary of the Pancyprian Association of Supermarkets, Andreas Hatziadamou, against the backdrop of the killing of 13,000 animals due to foot-and-mouth disease.
In his statements, Mr. Hatziadamou stated that there are currently no problems in the market, expressing the hope that the spread of the disease will be limited. He noted that the supply of sheep and goat meat is expected to be affected, however he reminded that the Lenten period is going through, during which demand is limited.
Regarding prices ahead of Easter, he underlined that it is early to make safe estimates, adding that the industry operates in a highly competitive environment. He stressed that "if necessary, the appropriate moves will be made, perhaps with imported meats, in order to limit any large price increase", expressing the belief that "the dynamics of the market will work to the benefit of the consumer".
He confirmed that the planning of the supermarkets includes the possibility of imports, pointing out that in several cases imported meat, especially from Greece and neighbouring countries, is available at lower prices, with the aim of maintaining "reasonable and fair" levels in the market.
For his part, the President of the Consumers' Association, Marios Drousiotis, stated that he does not foresee a shortage of meat in the market nor because of generalized price increases.
As he mentioned, the 13,000 sheep and goats slaughtered correspond to about 1% to 1.5% of the total animal population nationwide. He estimated that before Easter there is no price increase, although he noted that there may be a restriction on the availability of lambs, as part of the animals will be kept to replenish the livestock.
According to Mr. Drousiotis, the possibility of imports from Greece can fill any gap in the market. However, he pointed out that imported lambs are €1-€2 more expensive, a fact that may be reflected in retail prices at Easter.
As far as halloumi is concerned, he estimated that no price increase is expected, as there are large stocks in the dairy industries that can cover any reduction in milk production. Nevertheless, he warned that there may be difficulties in the production of halloumi PDO, due to the increased needs for goat and sheep milk.
