The total number of goats today is around 240,000, the same as in 2000. There was a gradual increase in goat numbers from 2000 to 2004 up to 292,000 animals, followed by a gradual decrease to the current figure. The downwards trend may continue in the coming years because of the scrapie problem.

Cyprus’ goats are distributed among 1,384 farms with only goats (151,000 animals), and 950 sheep and goat mixed herds (89,000 animals). The population consists of Damascus (27.2%), native (10.0%) and crosses between the Damascus and native goats (62.8%). There is a very small number of Alpine and Saanen goats.

The annual production of goat milk is 30X106 litres valued at 14.8 mi €, while that of meat is 4,000 tons valued at 15.6 mi €. Milk produced goes mostly for cheese making, especially for the local halloumi cheese; small quantities are used for other cheeses and yogurt.

Goat enterprises are mostly a family business, as the workforce comes primarily from the family (85%) and only 15% is outside labour. The production systems are medium and high input relying on locally produced roughage and barley grain, but also on imports of grains and protein sources (soybean meal, etc). Local goats are kept under low to medium input systems in mountainous areas.

a) What are the strengths?

The goat sector is characterized by a strong element of family business which is linked to a traditional way of life. Also, goat milk products are traditional and of high quality, fetching good prices in the market. Kid meat is regarded as one of the best tasting and with less fat than lamb meat, and meat from older animals has a value because it is cooked in a special way during the summer period. For all goat products, there is demand from consumers.

b) What are the challenges?

Currently, the biggest challenge that the goat sector faces is the scrapie disease. The Cyprus Veterinary Services, in close cooperation with relevant bodies of the European Union, have prepared an action plan to combat the disease. The plan implies the application of several measures including breeding for resistant genotypes.

Another challenge is the organization of the sector. The lack of breeders’ associations and also, of producers’ associations are major weaknesses of the sector.

A third point, is the climatic change with the increase in ambient temperature, the irregularities in rainfall and the frequent and serious droughts have a negative impact on locally produced feedstuffs and on the welfare and productivity of animals.