Cypriot Beekeepers Receive State Aid

Cypriot beekeepers have been granted a one-time payment of €350,000 to help them overcome economic challenges. This decision was made during a recent cabinet meeting.

"Due to international events and the impacts of climate change, last year was difficult for the beekeeping sector, leading to increased production costs and lower productivity," said Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou.

The minister stressed that financial support for beekeepers is crucial, given the vital role bees play in food production.

"In Europe, 84% of plant species and 76% of food production depend on pollinators," Panayiotou highlighted.

According to data collected in September and October 2020, Cyprus had 755 beekeepers and 58,184 hives.

That year, total honey production was estimated at 519,881 kg, with an average annual yield of 8.93 kg per hive, compared to the EU average of 22 kg per hive.