Electronic price tags will not prevent high costs: residents of Northern Cyprus doubt the authorities’ initiative

Amid the rapid rise in the cost of living and sharp price differences between stores, the government has proposed the introduction of electronic price tags for discussion. Authorities claim that the measure is intended to increase price transparency, simplify product comparisons, and reduce market pressure. However, public opinion converges on one point: technology alone is not enough.

As residents surveyed by local media note, the problem of high prices lies not in the absence of digital solutions, but in weak oversight, lack of actual inspections, and chaotic pricing practices that are masked by the concept of a “free market.”

According to citizens, electronic price tags will only display price differences but will not address the root cause of inflated prices. People are demanding more active government presence “on the ground”: regular inspections, intervention by relevant authorities, and effective restrictive measures against speculation.

Many give specific examples: the same product can cost 70 lira in one store and 100 in a neighboring one. As shoppers emphasize, seeing this difference on a screen does not make purchases more affordable.

A separate group of citizens also points out the social aspect: not everyone, especially the elderly, actively uses digital technologies. For them, electronic price tags will not be a solution, but just another barrier.

In conclusion, most agree that electronic price tags can be a helpful tool for consumer orientation, but not a real method to combat high prices. Without strict oversight, transparent rules, and seller accountability, the market, according to citizens, will continue to get more expensive.