Cyprus Prepares Economic Scenarios As Iran Conflict Raises Risks

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 20, 2026

Cyprus Finance Minister Makis Keravnos said the ministry is preparing multiple scenarios to address potential economic effects linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Work focuses on assessing risks to inflation, energy costs, and broader economic activity.

Monitoring Developments In A Complex Regional Landscape

Keravnos said the ministry is monitoring developments and preparing responses based on evolving conditions. Measures remain under review as authorities assess potential economic impact.

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Adaptive Policy Measures Under Consideration

Speaking after a meeting with Edek President Nikos Anastasiou, Keravnos said the ministry is evaluating a range of policy options. “At this moment, the finance ministry is processing scenarios, and we are monitoring developments,” he said. Questions were raised about possible fuel tax reductions, but Keravnos said no decisions have been made. “The measures have not yet been specified, but we are processing various scenarios,” he said.

Leveraging Experience In Crisis Management

Keravnos said the ministry is using previous experience from managing economic risks, including responses to regional conflicts. Monitoring and early policy planning have been part of the ministry’s approach over the past two years. Ongoing measures addressing cost-of-living pressures remain in place and form part of the current response framework.

An Evolving Response Strategy

Government response will depend on how the situation develops. Policy measures are expected to focus on supporting households and businesses while managing fiscal impact. The approach is based on monitoring data and adjusting policy tools as conditions change.

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Cyprus Livestock Industry Navigates Hemorrhagic Fever Impact

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 20, 2026

The recent outbreak of hemorrhagic fever has stirred concern among professionals in the livestock sector. Industry insiders report a modest 10% increase in lamb prices, while both production and export volumes of halloumi remain resilient.

Market Dynamics And Price Adjustments

Kostas Leivadotius, President of the Pan-Cypriot Meat Retailers Association, said supply has tightened following movement restrictions. Lamb prices increased from about €11 to €12 after detection of the virus, while pork and beef prices remain unchanged.

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Production And Slaughter Statistics

Leivadotius said around 700,000 animals are slaughtered annually in Cyprus, including approximately 20,000 cattle, 450,000 pigs, and 200,000 lambs, with additional supply covered through imports. During last year’s Easter period, more than 50,000 lambs were processed.

Logistical Challenges And Regulatory Responses

Movement restrictions are affecting transport and processing of livestock. Leivadotius said slaughterhouse operations have been disrupted, prompting discussions with authorities on measures to improve transport and processing efficiency.

Regional Implications And Import Adjustments

Following reported cases on Lesvos, Cyprus suspended imports of meat from the area. Imports from Lesvos are typically limited, but alternative supply sources are now being considered.

Maintaining Production Amid Health Concerns

Emphasizing the need for decisive action, Leivadotius urged industry stakeholders and the wider public to heed expert guidance on disease containment. He underlined that accelerated vaccination efforts and stringent movement controls are essential to curb the spread of the virus, thereby allowing production levels to return to normal.

Stability In Halloumi Exports

Michalis Koullouros, representative of the Cyprus Cheese Producers Association, said halloumi exports and prices remain stable, with producers continuing to meet domestic and international demand. Around 80% of Cyprus’ milk production is used for halloumi, with exports accounting for €350 million of a €400 million market. He added that significant livestock losses could affect production levels if the situation worsens.

Future Considerations And Industry Priorities

Looking ahead, industry experts remain watchful of the potential reevaluation of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) timeline for halloumi. Although discussions on revising the current schedule have not yet taken center stage, the primary focus now is on containing the outbreak and reinforcing support for livestock producers. This strategy is essential for restoring production and ensuring the industry’s long-term viability.

In summary, while the outbreak of hemorrhagic fever has led to some immediate market adjustments, decisive regulatory action and industry resilience may well steer Cyprus’ livestock and dairy sectors back on track in the near future.

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