Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus cheesemakers are considering whether to seek changes to halloumi’s Protected Designation of Origin framework as concerns grow over future milk supply and export sustainability. The Cheesemakers’ Association said it is examining the possibility of requesting a revision to the milk ratio requirements set out in the European specification.
Industry concerns over milk ratio
In a statement issued on Monday, the association confirmed it is assessing whether to apply for changes to the quota rules. Spokesman Michalis Koullouros said maintaining exports remains the industry’s primary objective and that the discussion is being shaped by market conditions and available milk production.
He said the issue is under consideration because the sector’s goal is to preserve exports.
PDO transition deadline
Under the PDO framework, the transitional period ends in July 2029. After that date, sheep and goat milk must make up at least 51 per cent of the halloumi mixture.
Cheesemakers have raised concerns that meeting that threshold may be difficult without affecting export volumes, particularly after recent losses to livestock populations.
Timing of any application
Koullouros said any request to amend the quota would be subject to a lengthy review by European authorities. He said decisions would therefore need to be made quickly if the industry decides to proceed.
He said the discussion is focused on matching the framework to actual milk availability while protecting a product that generates about €350 million in annual exports.
Opposition from farmers
The prospect of changing the PDO specification has been rejected by the sheep and goat farmers’ association. On Sunday, the organisation opposed any attempt to alter the approved European framework and called on stakeholders to concentrate on increasing sheep and goat milk production and achieving full compliance with the existing rules.
