Cypriot Farmers to Receive Compensation for Potato Crop Losses

Cypriot farmers are set to receive financial aid and compensation after cold weather destroyed potato crops across the island. This was confirmed by Minister of Agriculture Maria Panayiotou during a visit to affected plantations.

"The past few days have been a nightmare for farmers," the minister remarked following meetings with farmers in the Famagusta and Larnaca regions.

She explained that, after consulting with potato producers, a four-step plan had been put in place to provide financial support and compensation for the crop losses. Additional meetings with agricultural organizations and organized potato farmers will take place throughout the week to discuss further actions.

Since yesterday, farmers have been able to file damage reports through the Ministry of Agriculture’s website. The cold weather, which caused significant damage to vegetables and fruit crops, particularly affected Larnaca and Famagusta. Farmers had tried to save their potatoes, melons, and fruit trees from the frost. The hardest-hit areas include Mandria, Timi, Kouklia, Geroskipou, Anarita, Achelia, Ayia Varvara, Empa, and Kissonerga.

Agriculture Department teams have already begun assessing the damage in the Polis Chrysochous area, as well as the eastern and western parts of Paphos and semi-mountainous regions, including the area between Polemi and Stroumbi. Damage assessments in Paphos have already been completed, and preliminary reports suggest that around 5,000 acres of potatoes were affected by the frost.

Despite the considerable damage, the President of the Potato Growers Association has assured the public that there will be no potato shortage at this time. However, prices are expected to rise.