The six-month measure exempts fresh, chilled, and frozen meat and fish from VAT between 6 April and 30 September 2026, while processed products will continue to attract a 5% tax rate.
The Cyprus Ministry of Finance has announced on 31 March 2026 a temporary tax relief measure that will eliminate VAT on fresh meat and fish products for six months, effective 6 April 2026 through 30 September 2026.
The tax exemption applies to unprocessed meat and fish products. For meat, this includes fresh, chilled, or frozen beef, pork, lamb, goat, poultry, rabbit, and hare, along with edible offal from these animals. On the seafood side, the measure covers fresh, chilled, or frozen fish, as well as cuttlefish, squid, and octopus.
The decision, formalised through Decree K.D.P. 168/2026 and published in Official Gazette No. 6012 on 27 March 2026, aims to provide cost relief to consumers during the specified period.
It’s important to note that the zero VAT rate does not extend to processed varieties. Products such as sausages, meatballs, marinated meats, smoked fish, canned seafood, breaded items, chicken nuggets, cured meats, and gyros will continue to be taxed at the reduced rate of 5%.
