Prices in the Northern Cyprus Market Get Out of Control — Merchants Raise Alarm

Residents of Northern Cyprus are facing another wave of rising food prices. According to traders, the cost of vegetables and fruits in the markets has reached a historic high. The sharpest increase was recorded in Girne, where a kilogram of some seasonal fruits now costs up to 200 Turkish lira.

Traders explain the rise in prices by higher transportation, fertilizer, electricity, and packaging costs. The weakening of the Turkish lira and disruptions in supply chains have also contributed to the spike. One vendor noted, “Expenses rise every month, and small farmers simply can’t sell for less without operating at a loss.”

The following prices were recorded on the market:

• Figs, kiwi, dates, and guava — 200 ₺ per kilogram
• Broccoli — 200 ₺
• Beans — 180 ₺
• Peaches and grapes — 150 ₺
• Tomatoes and peppers — 130 ₺
• Oranges, mandarins, apples, pomegranates, and mushrooms — 100 ₺
• Cucumbers — 75 ₺
• Zucchini — 60 ₺
• Carrots, lemons, and spinach — 50 ₺
• Onions and eggplants — 40 ₺
• Bananas — the cheapest fruit — 70 ₺ per kilogram

Consumers complain that fresh produce is becoming increasingly unaffordable. Many families are forced to limit their consumption of fruits and vegetables, buying only the essentials. “We now choose based on price, not taste. Fruits used to be a staple, now they’re almost a luxury,” said one Girne resident.

Economists warn that such price dynamics could deepen social inequality and reduce domestic consumption. They urge authorities to introduce temporary support measures and review the tax system for basic goods.

The Ministry of Agriculture is discussing ways to boost local production to reduce import dependency and stabilize the market. However, experts note that without a long-term strategy and investment in the agricultural sector, the situation is unlikely to improve anytime soon.

Thus, the sharp increase in fruit and vegetable prices has become another reminder of the depth of Northern Cyprus’s economic challenges and the urgent need for systemic food security measures.