The TRNC Government Doesn't Plan to Back Down from Meat Imports from the Netherlands

TRNC Prime Minister Unal Ustel has affirmed that the government is “fully committed” to importing meat from abroad, with the price not exceeding 400 TL.

Saner made this announcement following a meeting of the National Unity Party (UBP), of which he serves as chairman.

During the approximately three-hour session, participants discussed recent economic challenges facing the country, including the ongoing indefinite strike by the Union of Meat Producers and Breeders, which has persisted for several days.

Meat processors are protesting against the decision to import meat from overseas. Despite the protests, the authorities are adamant about their decision, citing “a shortage of meat in the country” and the inability of citizens with low incomes to afford it.

“We've conducted research with both producers and butchers to make meat more accessible to our less privileged citizens. As a result of these studies, we, as the government, have made a decision. We will introduce our people to affordable meat,” said Unal Ustel after the meeting.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the “unprecedented” support provided to local producers.

Previously, TRNC authorities had initially set a maximum allowable meat price of 550 Turkish lira. This led to dissatisfaction among producers and resulted in meat shortages on store shelves for a period. The subsequent government decision was to approve the import of frozen lamb and minced meat from abroad, with meat products set to be imported from the Netherlands.

The cost of frozen meat imported into Northern Cyprus will not exceed 400 Turkish lira.