Northern Cyprus residents demand meat price reduction through import authorization

Calls to allow meat imports from European countries to reduce prices and create a competitive market environment are intensifying in Northern Cyprus. Residents complain that the cost of red meat has become too high, and many families are forced to significantly reduce its consumption.

The Butchers' Union, with the support of the Chamber of Artisans and Shopkeepers, has launched a public campaign, placing banners in Nicosia with the slogan: “Due to high prices, measures have been lost, the country is ruined.” Industry representatives state that more and more citizens are buying meat in Southern Cyprus, where prices are noticeably lower.

Many residents believe that allowing controlled imports could stabilize the market. According to citizens, Southern Cyprus imports fresh meat not only from EU countries but also from Australia, which keeps prices there significantly more affordable.

Interviewed residents note that red meat has become an almost inaccessible product for many. Some families buy it only once every two or three weeks, while some consumers are switching completely to chicken. People also link the high prices to expensive feed and farmers' costs.

Citizens emphasize that imports must be conducted under strict sanitary control. In their opinion, this would reduce the burden on family budgets and make meat more accessible to low-income families.