Cyprus wines can become more competitive and of better quality, Agriculture Minister Christos Senekis said, while pledging government support for winegrowers tackling drought, climate change and rising production costs.

Speaking at the Palouze and Wine Festival in Vasa Koilaniou on Sunday evening, he highlighted the importance of supporting viticulture to sustain wine production in rural areas and improve living conditions for those dependent on it.

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

The government supports the sector through the strategic plan of the Common Agricultural Policy for 2023 to 2027.

This plan includes financial assistance for winegrowers and winemakers through a series of measures referred to as EPSA interventions.

Senekis said the EU is due to allocate over €22 million in funding to the bloc’s winegrowers and winemakers by 2027.

This funding will boost the sector’s competitiveness and quality, promote wines with Protected Designation of Origin and Protected Geographical Indication status, and help producers adapt to changing conditions.

The minister also mentioned a recently announced state aid scheme that aims to restore abandoned vineyards.

He stated that bringing this land back into cultivation would help revitalise viticulture and create natural firebreaks that could slow the spread of wildfires and protect the environment.

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

Farmers can receive €1,090 per decare for restored vineyards located at altitudes of up to 799 metres and €1,414 per decare for vineyards situated above 800 metres.

Senekis acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers, which include prolonged drought, climate change, extreme weather, plant diseases, and high production costs.

He indicated that the government is providing support for damage caused by adverse weather through the National Framework for granting state aid.

The government is also monitoring water supplies and is exploring ways to ensure farmers have more reliable access to irrigation water.

Senekis said additional quantities of water for irrigation have been approved until the end of 2026.

Senekis also expressed approval of the growing interest in recent Common Agricultural Policy funding schemes.

He noted that applications for a significant investment scheme have requested around €210 million in subsidies.

“This response indicates that, despite the challenges, there is a willingness for investment, modernisation, and further development of productive activity,” he said.