€109 Million Strategy for Sustainable Agriculture in Cyprus: 11 Key Actions
Innovation, Economic Resilience, and Sustainability
Cyprus has introduced a comprehensive strategy for its agricultural sector, focusing on sustainable development, innovation, and economic resilience. The plan, presented by Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, outlines a roadmap for the future of Cypriot agriculture.
The strategy, approved by the Council of Ministers on October 2, 2024, includes 11 key actions with a total budget of €109.3 million, covering the period from 2024 to 2028.
"Our goal is to create a new model for the primary sector, ensuring sustainable production, economic support, and access to advanced technologies," said Panayiotou, emphasizing the shift from emergency measures to a more robust, development-focused approach.
The plan aims to increase the agricultural sector’s contribution to Cyprus' GDP, currently at 1.8%, by enhancing its capabilities while promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of challenges like drought.
Key components include supporting professional farming through priority measures and scoring systems, implementing water management solutions, and adopting smart farming technologies. It also seeks to address market gaps by utilizing untapped agricultural land and encouraging collaboration among producer groups.
Panayiotou highlighted the importance of supporting Cyprus’ agricultural competitiveness, ensuring high-quality, affordable products for consumers, and fair incomes for farmers. The strategy will be funded through the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and national resources, with the University of Cyprus’ Economic Research Centre evaluating its economic impact.
The 11 actions cover areas such as green competitiveness, livestock sector support, new financing tools, quality certification for Cypriot products, and risk management in agricultural production.
“This strategy provides the momentum for Cypriot agriculture to grow and increase its contribution to the economy," Panayiotou said, adding that it will pave the way for a resilient and prosperous future for the sector.
