Foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Cyprus

Priority question for written answer P-000777/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Michalis Hadjipantela (PPE)

The recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus has led to the compulsory culling of livestock, movement restrictions, and severe economic losses for the affected farmers, threatening the viability of the primary sector.

Under Articles 219 and 220 of Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013, Member States may request exceptional market support measures to address serious market disturbances caused by animal disease.

Under Regulation (EU) 2021/690 establishing the Single Market Programme, costs related to veterinary emergency measures, including compensation for culled animals, cleaning and disinfection, and surveillance, are eligible for EU co-financing once notified to the Commission.

In this context, the Commission is asked:

• 1.What immediate measures does the Commission consider necessary to contain the disease and prevent its further spread among livestock, and how can the Commission support their rapid implementation in coordination with the Cypriot authorities and existing emergency instruments?
• 2.Does the Commission consider the conditions for activating these measures to be fulfilled, and what is the expected timeline for approval and disbursement?
• 3.Which specific costs does the Commission currently consider eligible for immediate EU support to safeguard the sustainability of affected farmers?

Submitted: 25.2.2026