Alpha News

Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak: Fears for Cypriot Economy

Published December 30, 2025, 20:18

A state of emergency has been declared in the Veterinary Services due to the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in the occupied territories. Canada has placed the entire island of Cyprus under strict surveillance and has banned the import of Cypriot fresh meat, unpasteurized milk and dairy products, as well as genetic material, with the exception of halloumi. Saudi Arabia is considering a full embargo on halloumi, which is causing concern for the impact on the Cypriot economy. Disinfections have begun at the checkpoints and increased surveillance along the green line to prevent animal smuggling.