Boost for rural development through vineyard restoration

Cyprus is moving to revitalise abandoned vineyard areas through a new funding scheme aimed at supporting small and medium-sized agricultural businesses. The initiative, backed by a €2.5 million budget, will run from 2026 to 2029 and focuses on restoring around 2,000 acres of neglected vineyard land across the island.

The programme will fund key restoration works, including clearing overgrown plots, preparing soil and replanting vines, with an emphasis on indigenous grape varieties. Beyond boosting agricultural activity, the initiative also aims to reduce fire risks, as unmanaged land can become highly flammable. By bringing these areas back into cultivation, they can serve as natural firebreaks, helping to protect surrounding forests, farmland and communities.

Grants will cover up to 65 per cent of eligible costs, with funding levels depending on altitude. Applications must be submitted before any work begins, and the scheme will remain open until the end of 2029 or until available funds are fully allocated. The initiative reflects a broader effort to support rural development, sustainability and the preservation of traditional agricultural landscapes.