Newsroom
Cypriot consumers are feeling the pinch as the prices of fruits, vegetables, and greens have surged, making it harder for households to purchase these essential goods. The sharp rise in prices has led to significant reductions in how much produce shoppers are willing to buy, with many opting to purchase in smaller, more frequent quantities.
Marios Antoniou, General Secretary of the Pancyprian Retail Trade Association, confirmed the growing burden on consumers. "People are frustrated," Antoniou said, noting that the high costs of basic produce are deterring many from buying as much as they need. "They’re shopping more often but in smaller quantities because they can’t afford to buy in bulk."
An example cited by Antoniou illustrates the issue: in many stores, tomatoes and cherry tomatoes are being sold at €4-€5 per kilo, a price point that has proven prohibitive for many households. As a result, many products remain unsold, further complicating the situation for retailers.
According to Antoniou, unsold produce is not returned to suppliers. "If a product is no longer suitable, it’s discarded. If the quality has deteriorated but it’s still usable, it may be repurposed, like turning lower-quality tomatoes into low-priced tomato juice," he explained.
He also pointed out that the supply of tomatoes in Cyprus has been unable to meet demand, resulting in imports from Greece. However, he stressed that prices for fruits and perishables are dictated by suppliers, leaving retailers and consumers grappling with the fallout.
The rising cost of living and reduced purchasing power have sparked widespread frustration, with retailers being the final point of contact for these grievances.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister, Makis Keravnos, announced new measures aimed at supporting vulnerable groups and the middle class, particularly young couples. After a meeting with President Nikos Christodoulidis, Keravnos revealed that key products such as baby and adult diapers, baby milk, feminine hygiene products, and fruits and vegetables will soon be sold with zero VAT. These measures will be implemented without a specific end date.
Keravnos emphasized that the government's economic policies are focused on strengthening the middle class and protecting vulnerable groups, especially in light of the current geopolitical challenges. He noted that the middle class has grown from 58.6% of the population in 2015 to 64.1% today and that it remains a key driver of economic and social policies. Additionally, tax reforms are being prepared, with further measures expected before 2026.
