Middle East conflict disrupts Cypriot potato exports

Andreas Karyos, representative of Cypriot potato producers, stated that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is negatively affecting the agricultural sector. The instability has led to increased operational costs and significant delays in the transportation of potato exports. Retailers in key markets, including Germany, Austria, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, utilize specific supply programs for Cypriot potatoes during the months of April, May, and June. Producers face the risk of being removed from these supermarket programs if they fail to meet delivery timelines. Karyos noted that such a loss could lead to long-term market access issues. In addition to geopolitical disruptions, farmers are dealing with domestic difficulties regarding the harvesting of early-season crops.