Government pledges support for Cyprus wine sector amid climate and cost pressures

Vasa Koilaniou, Cyprus. Cyprus wines can become more competitive and improve in quality with government support for winegrowers facing drought, climate change and rising production costs, Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis said.

Support for viticulture

Speaking at the Palouze and Wine Festival in Vasa Koilaniou on Sunday evening, Senekis said supporting viticulture was important for sustaining wine production in rural areas and improving the living conditions of people who depend on the sector.

He said the government’s strategy focuses on using the strengths of Cyprus’ wine sector to improve the quality and competitiveness of local wines, protect indigenous grape varieties and preserve traditional vineyard landscapes.

EU funding

The government supports the sector through the Common Agricultural Policy strategic plan for 2023 to 2027, which includes financial assistance for winegrowers and winemakers through measures known as EPSA interventions.

Senekis said the European Union is expected to allocate more than €22 million to winegrowers and winemakers by 2027. The funding is intended to strengthen competitiveness and quality, promote wines with Protected Designation of Origin and Protected Geographical Indication status, and help producers adapt to changing conditions.

Abandoned vineyards

The minister also referred to a recently announced state aid scheme aimed at restoring abandoned vineyards.

He said returning abandoned land to cultivation could help revitalise viticulture while creating natural firebreaks that could slow the spread of wildfires and protect the environment.

Applications for the scheme will remain open until December 31, 2029.