The launch of the "Olympus" company’s dairy plant in Cyprus is a significant milestone not only for the company but also for Cyprus' dairy industry, stated Maria Panayiotou, the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment.

Speaking at the inauguration of the "Olympus" factory, the Minister described the project as iconic, emphasizing its role in strengthening the economy while linking Greece and Cyprus through one of the island’s most important agri-food products: halloumi.

"The Halloumi PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) is the most prominent ambassador of Cypriot gastronomy. It represents a national treasure that significantly contributes to the island’s economy, with total exports for 2024 valued at 186 million euros and over 10,000 jobs," she said.

The Minister added that the current production methodology combines traditional halloumi-making techniques with modern methods and infrastructure. This, she explained, proves that tradition can not only be preserved but also enhanced through the use of advanced technology, innovation, and culinary excellence.

At the factory, business expertise that originated nearly 60 years ago in Larissa is combined with the tradition of occupied Vatili, which has been developed and expanded by the Kouroushis company, according to the Minister.

"These two livestock regions, driven by the passion of those raised on their pastures, have evolved into modern facilities whose products now flood the Greek and Cypriot markets," she said.

The Minister emphasized that knowledge of tradition is evolving into modern infrastructure that will leverage the advantages of a competitive market in halloumi production.

"To ensure that this competitive market continues to thrive, as the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, we are working to create the necessary conditions and infrastructure for Halloumi PDO to remain our main agri-food export, while also safeguarding and strengthening its PDO status," she continued.

Minister Panayiotou concluded by highlighting that "Olympus" is joining an already strong industry in Cyprus, which has made significant progress, both qualitatively and quantitatively, over the past decade.