Part-time farming in Cyprus

Abstract

Part-time farming may be viewed as a part of the process of labour migration out of agriculture associated with economic growth and development. It helps to sustain the rural sector by reducing the rate of out-migration. This paper reports on a pilot survey of part-time farmers in the Greek speaking ‘government-controlled’ part of Cyprus. The survey findings suggest that in Cyprus part-time farmers are slightly younger and operate smaller holdings than average; they rent in less land and irrigate a smaller area. There are substantial differences between the agricultural zones. In coastal fruit- and vegetable-producing areas, commercial part-time farming complements off-farm work which is available locally. The farmers' confidence in their long-term prospects is reflected in their willingness and ability to invest on the farm and in low levels of out-migration. In the relatively depressed mountain zone, off-farm work is necessary to supplement family income, and debts are incurred for consumption purposes. Farmers travel long distances to find work and may have more than one off-farm occupation. Much of the burden of farm work falls on other family members. Although mountain farmers would like to spend more time in agriculture they have little confidence in its future prospects and expect their children to migrate. Government support may be necessary in such areas to ensure the survival of rural communities.