Cypriot farmers hit hard by drought and soaring temperatures are set to receive a €3.5 million emergency relief package from the EU. The funding, approved by member states, aims to cushion the blow of devastating weather conditions that have crippled crop production since early 2024.
A Sector In Crisis
The first half of 2024 brought relentless drought and record-high temperatures, wreaking havoc on Cyprus’ agricultural output. Key crops—including cereals, olives, and vegetables—took a serious hit, leaving farmers struggling with income losses.
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How The Funds Will Work
The aid, which must be distributed by September 30, can be tripled with national co-financing, allowing Cyprus to push the total support package up to €10.5 million if it chooses. But there’s a deadline: the government must submit a distribution plan to the European Commission by May 31.
“We Must Be Better Prepared”
Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen acknowledged the crisis, stating, “We can’t change what has already happened, but we can learn from this and be better prepared.”
Now, the ball is in Cyprus’ court. Once the EU officially adopts the decision and publishes it in the gazette, the funds will be transferred without delay—offering a crucial, if temporary, relief for farmers fighting to recover.
