Livestock Breeders Report Barley Shortage and Animal Losses in Northern Cyprus

Representatives of the industry association held a protest at the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, claiming a critical shortage of barley in the country. According to Union Chairman Adil Onal, grain stocks ran out 15–20 days ago, leading to deaths and miscarriages among small livestock.

He noted that the monthly requirement is about 12,000 tons, while the announced delivery of 4,800 tons is insufficient. The union demanded permission to import barley from Southern Cyprus or through private companies abroad.

Onal also criticized the project to import Assaf sheep from Spain. He claimed that 260 animals died during import and quarantine, resulting in losses of 24 million Turkish Liras for the cooperative. Furthermore, 51 young producers took out loans to purchase the animals, but milk production has not yet started.

The union stated that the increase in feed and other resource costs has reached 200%, while subsidies remain inadequate. It is also alleged that small producers are facing difficulties in delivering milk.

The Ministry has not yet provided official comments on these statements.