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Halloumi at Risk of Imitation from Latin America, Says Environmental Movement of Cyprus

Published February 12, 2026, 14:12
Halloumi at Risk of Imitation from Latin America, Says Environmental Movement of Cyprus

The Environmental Movement of Cyprus (PKK) has expressed strong concerns regarding the upcoming EU-Mercosur agreement, arguing that it leaves halloumi vulnerable to imitation from Latin American countries due to a lack of sufficient guarantees for the protection of geographical indications. The PKK emphasizes that the agreement is a blow to the Cypriot economy and food security, as it creates unfair competition due to the influx of cheaper products produced with pesticides banned in the EU. It views the agreement as a colonial-type exchange that sacrifices the agricultural sector for the benefit of large corporations. The PKK calls on citizens to participate in the protest organized on Saturday, expressing their opposition to the agreement and supporting the positions of agricultural organizations. The protection of halloumi and the primary sector is considered vital for the economic survival of Cyprus.