“Call for Inclusion of Carcass Meat in Meat Imports” – BRTK
The Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (KTEZO) has raised concerns about the current meat imports situation in the country. They are urging for more carcass meat to be included in addition to iced meat, and for a review of production and agricultural policies.
In a recent statement, the chamber highlighted that frozen meat has been made available for sale through butchers and markets with butcher sections, starting yesterday. This move has garnered significant interest from various segments of society due to its price advantage.
According to the Butchers’ Association, approximately 15 tons of meat for retail sale are currently being offered through butchers, and due to high demand, it is expected to sell out within a few days.
The chamber emphasized the need for initiatives to address the meat deficit and ensure a sustainable supply of fresh carcass meat. They pointed out that the unplanned population growth and declining small livestock production in the country have contributed to the escalating meat prices.
The meat shortage has also led to instances of meat smuggling from the South to the North, under unhealthy conditions. The chamber warned that the current situation has allowed a small minority to dominate and profit, while the majority of society with low purchasing power struggles to afford meat.
It is clear that a comprehensive review of production and agricultural policies is necessary to address the meat deficit and ensure a stable supply of affordable meat in the country. The chamber called for a greater focus on importing carcass meat alongside iced meat, in order to meet the needs of the population and prevent further price hikes.
In conclusion, the chamber emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address the meat shortage and stressed that with the right strategies in place, these challenges can be overcome.
