No potato shortage is anticipated currently, according to Andreas Karyos, head of the potato producers' association. This statement comes as farmers across Cyprus evaluate frost damage.
In the Paphos district, damage assessments are complete. Kostas Neophytou, the district's agricultural insurance officer, reported to the Cyprus News Agency that around 5,000 acres of potatoes were impacted. Affected areas include Mandria, Timi, Kouklia, Geroskipou, Anarita, Achelia, Ayia Varvara, Emba, and Kissonerga.
Department of Agriculture teams commenced damage assessments on Monday in the Polis Chrysochous area, eastern and western Paphos, and semi-mountainous regions like Polemi and Stroumbi. Neophytou emphasized that initial assessments targeted potato fields and urged farmers to file compensation claims within 15 days once the official process began.
Evaluations for damage to citrus and banana plantations will take 10 to 15 days. Minimal banana claims have been anticipated since the harvest concluded. On CyBC radio, Karyos noted that potatoes will become pricier in the coming months due to crop losses and mentioned a general recovery fund proposal.
In Larnaca and Famagusta, farmers implemented measures such as overnight watering to shield crops. Agriculture ministry teams assessed damages on Monday, promising expedited support. Additional water was provided to safeguard crops until a midweek temperature rise.
Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou coordinated with the Electricity Authority (EAC) to prevent power outages, ensuring farmers could maintain crop and livestock protection efforts.
Source: Cyprus Mail