Cypriot potato exports face challenges due to Middle East conflict and weather

Potato farmers in Cyprus are reporting increased shipping costs and export delays directly linked to tensions in the Middle East. Spokesperson Andreas Karyos stated that these issues threaten supply contracts with supermarkets in Germany, Austria, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, which typically stock Cypriot produce between April and June. There is concern that consistent supply failures could lead these retail chains to remove Cypriot potatoes from their procurement programs permanently. Beyond geopolitical factors, local farmers are dealing with significant agricultural setbacks caused by heavy rainfall. These adverse weather conditions have hindered the harvesting of early crops. Additionally, strong winds and salt spray from the sea have damaged fields in the regions of Ormidia, Xylofagou, Liopetri, and Sotira. The combination of logistics disruptions and domestic crop damage poses a dual threat to the industry's profitability and market share.