The association of Turkish Cypriot milk producers on Tuesday urged measures to protect the dairy protection sector amid a decrease in consumption and an economic slowdown in the north.

It called for swift action, such as temporarily suspending imports of milk and dairy products or raising tariffs, to support local production.

The association warned that the weakening of the sector could have significant effects on rural development and food security, with the latter highlighted as particularly important in light of current developments in the nearby Middle East.

According to the association, around 54,000 people in the north currently rely on the dairy sector for their livelihoods.

A similar warning had been issued by the Cypriot cheesemakers association last Tuesday.

The group had urged the government proceed with the immediate implementation of preventive measures to curb the spread of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)

FMD was first detected in a livestock unit in the north in December, and it has since also been detected in the Republic, prompting the culling of thousands of animals.

The cheesemakers warned that the outbreak threatens livestock production and the wider economy.

The association appealed to the government to take action in areas where the Republic lacks full control, particularly around the buffer zone in Pergamos, and called for the suspension of operations at livestock units there until compliance with health and biosecurity protocols is confirmed.

Association spokesperson Michalis Koullouros said the outbreak has already led to the culling of 13,000 animals.

He warned that “if animals are lost, their production and the production of halloumi are also lost,” but reassured consumers that dairy products, including halloumi, remain safe.

The foot-and-mouth disease is a viral disease which can affect cattle, pigs, goats and sheep. Although highly contagious among animals, foot-and mouth disease is not harmful for humans.

Infected animals mostly recover but are likely to lose weight and be in a weak state, which leads to reduced milk and meat production.