Drought aid: €10.2M distributed to farmers across the island

Cyprus has paid a total of €10.2 million to farmers in 2025 as compensation for severe drought, according to the agriculture ministry. A total of 2,516 applications were approved under the rural development programme, which provides financial assistance to farmers affected by exceptional circumstances. The aid was primarily given to professional farmers, although non-professionals were also eligible.

The drought, described as one of the worst in recent years, severely impacted crops, cereals, olives, fruit, vegetables, and vineyards. Low rainfall and unusually high temperatures caused reduced yields and lasting damage to production potential, while water shortages in reservoirs and pressure on irrigation systems placed additional financial strain on farmers.

In addition to national support, Cyprus received €3.5 million from the EU agricultural reserve to help farmers cope with the crisis. Despite the compensation, the ministry warned that the prolonged drought, which began in December 2022, continues to affect the country and presents ongoing challenges for agriculture.