Arden Dairy Ltd. recently had the honor of hosting a delegation from the Directorate-General for Structural Reform Support of the European Commission, led by Director Judit Rozsa. The visit provided an opportunity for discussions on Arden’s operations, future plans, and expectations from the EU. The Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce also participated in the meeting alongside Rozsa.
Commitment to PDO Standards
The Chamber of Commerce recognizes and fully supports Arden Dairy’s commitment to producing Halloumi/Hellim in compliance with the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) regulations and EU standards. Given Arden’s dedication and efforts, we are confident that it will soon successfully complete the necessary inspections and become the second certified Turkish Cypriot producer under the PDO scheme.
To recall, Gülgün Dairy Products Ltd. was the first Turkish Cypriot producer to achieve PDO certification after successfully passing the Bureau Veritas audit on March 28, 2023. Additionally, in line with PDO requirements, Bureau Veritas has initiated inspections of dairy farms supplying milk for Halloumi production. We are pleased to announce that two farms have already received compliance certification, and inspections for other farms are ongoing as per a structured schedule. The Chamber remains committed to ensuring that all Halloumi producers benefit from PDO certification.
Overcoming Challenges in the PDO Process
Although the EU regulations for Halloumi/Hellim PDO status came into effect on October 1, 2021, the certification process for Turkish Cypriot producers faced a 1.5-year delay due to various obstacles. The Chamber has actively collaborated with local stakeholders and the European Commission to overcome these challenges and facilitate the initiation of the PDO certification process. Despite the delays, we welcome the commencement of the certification process.
However, true success will be achieved only when Turkish Cypriot Halloumi producers gain access to the EU single market and can export their PDO-certified products to the EU. Recognizing this, the Chamber is working closely with the European Commission and local stakeholders to finalize the necessary arrangements. One crucial step in this process is establishing the required health and hygiene inspection mechanisms under the Green Line Regulation, aiming for the first official trade to occur by the end of 2024.
Economic and Strategic Importance of PDO Certification
The PDO designation ensures that Halloumi/Hellim can only be produced in Cyprus, bringing significant economic benefits to the entire island. Turkish Cypriot producers meeting EU quality standards and accessing the EU market will not only enhance product quality but also contribute to the sector’s profitability and sustainability, leading to increased income across the supply chain.
Beyond economic gains, Halloumi’s PDO certification holds strategic significance. It fosters closer integration of the Turkish Cypriot community with the EU and enhances economic cooperation between the island’s two communities. This is why the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce has consistently supported the PDO certification process despite challenges and less-than-ideal conditions.
Ensuring Fair Access and Compliance
While supporting the PDO process, the Chamber also emphasizes the importance of ensuring fair and seamless access for all Halloumi producers to certification mechanisms. The proper implementation of EU regulations and equitable access to inspection procedures are essential for maximizing the benefits of PDO certification.
The Chamber remains committed to closely monitoring the process and actively advocating for uninterrupted and fair access to certification mechanisms for Turkish Cypriot producers.
With continued cooperation and strategic efforts, Turkish Cypriot Halloumi producers are poised to achieve PDO certification and expand their reach to the European market, paving the way for a more prosperous and sustainable dairy industry.
