Suspension of eleven livestock units in Pyla-Pergamos area

The Cypriot Veterinary Services have ordered the suspension of eleven livestock units in the Pergamos area, comprising eight cattle farms and three sheep/goat farms. This measure aims to prevent the movement of milk from these units, as well as thirteen other unregistered farms operating illegally within the Buffer Zone and British Bases, into dairies in the Republic of Cyprus. The decision follows a risk assessment conducted after the spread of foot-and-mouth disease into the free areas on February 19, 2026. Prior to this, milk was transported from these areas under strict supervision since December 15, 2025. Andreas Grigoriou, General Director of the Ministry of Agriculture, confirmed the suspension will remain in effect pending the completion of investigations and formal reports. The investigation seeks to verify compliance with national legislation, particularly regarding unregistered units operating in sensitive zones. The region is characterized by a complex administrative status, with several units operating without official registration codes from the Republic of Cyprus.