Potato price of between 130-140 TL signals the country’s collapse: North Cyprus Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen

The sharp increase in potato prices to 130-140 TL has been heavily criticized by the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (KTEZO). 

KTEZO described the sale of basic consumer goods at such high prices as a sign of the country's collapse.

In its statement, KTEZO emphasized that potatoes, like meat and milk, are among the basic needs of the public, saying, "It’s neither a dragon fruit nor a mango. Who will explain these prices and how?" The statement also noted that the price increases cannot be explained by supply, demand, or regulation and criticized the lack of attention to the public's basic needs.

The statement highlighted that fundamental issues like production, supply, and pricing are absent from the country's agenda, adding, "We neither manage nor are capable of managing." KTEZO stressed that sidelining state institutions responsible for oversight and taking destructive steps have contributed to this situation.

KTEZO further pointed out that the country has reached a point where even potatoes have become unaffordable, arguing that not just households but the country as a whole is collapsing due to inflation and high costs. It stated that the deterioration of the country's economic and social structure has also deeply harmed industries such as manufacturing, hotels, cafes, and restaurants.

In its conclusion, KTEZO declared, "A republic, a state, democracy cannot be considered separate from the living conditions, health, education, and production of its people," emphasizing that conscience, love for humanity, and patriotism are the only paths to a fresh start.