The Republic of Cyprus is currently confronting a serious biosecurity challenge after foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) was identified in a livestock unit within the occupied northern territories. This concerning outbreak, confirmed last week near Famagusta, has necessitated an immediate increase in preventative measures across the entire island. Authorities are diligently working to prevent the disease from entering government-controlled areas and to avoid significant economic damage.
Initial concerns were raised by private veterinarians who observed clinical signs suggestive of FMD in approximately seventy cattle. Subsequently, the Veterinary Services of Cyprus officially confirmed the presence of this highly contagious viral disease in the occupied region. In response, a state of heightened alert has been declared, and emergency monitoring protocols have been activated throughout the Republic. The Director of Veterinary Services described the situation as critical, emphasizing the inherent difficulty in achieving absolute containment due to the disease's transboundary nature.
Preventative strategies have been substantially strengthened, including nationwide controls and intensified border security along the UN-patrolled Green Line. The Cyprus Police and Customs Department are conducting more thorough patrols and inspections, specifically targeting the illicit movement of animals and animal products. Citizens have been strongly encouraged to report any straying animals or grazing near the dividing line, which poses a critical transmission risk.
The discovery has already had immediate and considerable economic repercussions. Australia, a crucial market for Cypriot agricultural exports, has promptly removed the Republic from its list of FMD-free countries. This decision has led to an immediate ban on halloumi cheese and other dairy products, a severe blow to the Cypriot economy, which heavily depends on these exports. The Ministry of Agriculture is actively engaging with international bodies, including the European Commission and Australian authorities, to address this situation and challenge the import restrictions. Cyprus is reportedly preparing to contest Australia's unilateral action at the World Trade Organisation.
To fortify biosecurity, the Veterinary Services have implemented sixteen targeted measures, including stricter inspections and expanded controls. Consultations have been held with stakeholders, such as private veterinarians and livestock operators, to reinforce biosecurity protocols. A delegation of European Commission experts has also visited the occupied areas to conduct an on-site assessment of the outbreak, aiming to gather firsthand information for the bloc's response. Officials have firmly dismissed any suggestions that the disease originated in government-controlled areas, maintaining their focus on containing the current outbreak and preventing further spread. The potential impact on shipments currently en route abroad is also a significant concern as authorities manage this unfolding crisis.