TRNC claims lower prices compared to the Republic of Cyprus

The Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce (KTSO) has published a study according to which most goods in the TRNC are cheaper than in the Republic of Cyprus. The analysis covered 74 categories of basic consumer goods and was conducted from February to March 2026.

According to the report, about 79.5% of the goods were cheaper in the TRNC, while in the Republic of Cyprus only 20.5% of items were more affordable. A particularly noticeable difference was recorded in locally produced goods — here, the price advantage in the north reaches 90%.

The study was prepared by the independent consulting firm Prologue Consulting Ltd. Specialists compared prices in retail stores on both sides of the island. If identical brands were unavailable, similar goods in the same category were used.

According to KTSO, the most notable price advantage is observed in dairy products, household chemicals, and fast-moving consumer goods. Halloumi, milk, yogurt, cheese, washing powders, shampoos, and paper products were named among the cheaper goods in the TRNC.

The authors of the study attribute this difference to the presence of domestic production, which helps reduce dependence on imports and currency fluctuations. The report emphasizes that even with the high exchange rate of the Euro against the Turkish Lira, local producers help keep prices stable.

At the same time, in sectors where the TRNC depends on imports, the cost of goods remains high due to transportation costs, insurance, and customs duties.

The Chamber also commented on the discussions surrounding the Price Stabilization Fund, noting that it is the development of local production, rather than subsidies, that plays a key role in curbing price increases.

The study has once again drawn attention to the economic differences between the two parts of the island, especially against the backdrop of the ongoing increase in the cost of living.