Greece implements agricultural reforms as feta prices face surge

The Greek Parliament has passed legislation to reform the agricultural sector, including the creation of a new Farmers' Registry and significant changes to ELGA compensation limits. Under the new law, the maximum compensation per beneficiary and per insurance year increases from €70,000 to €200,000. Additionally, the regulation aims to eliminate bank commissions for the payment of special insurance contributions to support producers.

Simultaneously, the Greek feta cheese market is facing significant price pressures. Michalis Sarantis, president of the National Interprofessional Feta Organization (EDOF), warns that retail prices could rise by up to €2 per kilogram over the next two months, potentially reaching €15–€16 per kilogram.

This price surge is driven by a sharp decline in production caused by livestock losses. An epidemic has resulted in the death of between 500,000 and 600,000 sheep and goats, reducing the total livestock population to below 8 million animals. This loss is estimated to reduce milk production by approximately 20,000 tons. Increased demand from international markets, which absorb 75% of Greek production, and rising raw milk costs are further compounding the upward pressure on prices.