Cheese producers in Cyprus have stopped working since January 10

After prolonged disputes with the authorities, the Association of Cheese Producers in Cyprus has taken a unanimous decision to close all dairies from January 10, the reasons being new regulatory changes, the Greek newspaper "Kathimerini" reported. Against the background of the impasse and failed negotiations with the Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment, the board of the association was forced to take the drastic decision. The conflict between producers and the island's authorities arose from a decree published on October 20, which unilaterally mandated the use of at least 19% sheep and goat milk in the production of cheeses and was challenged by the industry association. The disagreement of the producers is in the incorrect application of the specified 19% for all dairy products, and not specifically for halloumi cheese, as it was according to the framework contract. Efforts to find a consensus solution, ...