How much does full nutrition for a family cost in Northern Cyprus: KTAMS union calculation

The Cypriot trade union organization KTAMS has published a calculation of the "food minimum" — that is, the amount an average family should spend on food. As of July 31, 2025, for a family of four to eat fully and in a balanced way, they need about 30,597 Turkish lira per month.

The calculations were based on nutrition standards recommended by the Ministry of Health and the official prices provided by the Statistical Institute.

The total monthly food expenses are as follows:

adult woman — about 7,888.20 TL (approximately 263 TL per day);

adult man — about 8,222.70 TL (approximately 274 TL per day);

teenager (15–19 years) — about 8,727.60 TL (approximately 291 TL per day);

child aged 4–6 years — about 5,758.50 TL (approximately 192 TL per day).

It is separately noted that in July 2025, monthly inflation was 3.17%, and the overall cost-of-living index increased by 35.33%.

KTAMS head Güven Bengihan stated that the consumer basket used in the calculations is outdated — it is based on 2015 data, does not reflect modern habits, and does not match the real expenses of the population. In his opinion, this significantly distorts the real figures, especially when restaurant and hotel prices are rising, while food prices reflect a decrease.