Manavoğlu: Economy Shifts South, Fewer Shoppers from South to North

Gülşah Sanver Manavoğlu attributed the rising cost of living and increasing fruit and vegetable prices directly to production costs.

"ECONOMY SHIFTING SOUTH, FEWER SHOPPERS FROM SOUTH TO NORTH"

Manavoğlu stated, "The economy is shifting south. The real issue is that fewer people from the south are coming north to shop."

She pointed out that producers in Northern Cyprus cannot supply goods at the same prices as those in Southern Cyprus or Turkey.

"TOMATOES BEING SOLD TO THE SOUTH"

Due to the challenges faced by producers, Manavoğlu noted that some are withdrawing from production. She mentioned that tomato prices were particularly high this summer, partly because tomatoes were being sold to Southern Cyprus.

She highlighted that cash payments by buyers in Southern Cyprus incentivized producers to sell there.

Regarding the ongoing discussions about the Market Law, Manavoğlu expressed that the law would not meet public expectations. She stated, "The public expects lower prices and controlled use of pesticides."

"WHOLESALERS WHO CAN COVER LOGISTICS COSTS ARE MORE SUCCESSFUL"

Manavoğlu explained that logistics costs are among the largest expenses, saying, "Wholesalers who can cover these costs are more successful."

She added, "Normally, if a product is 100 TL, 20% belongs to the wholesaler. The selling price in the market is adjusted according to the profit margin. But this process is not transparent."

Manavoğlu also reiterated that the economy is shifting south, and the decrease in shoppers from Southern Cyprus to the north presents a serious economic problem.

"ADDING FUEL BEFORE IT RUNS OUT WILL SOLVE BLACK SMOKE ISSUE"

Addressing the issue of dirty smoke from power plants, Manavoğlu pointed out that the high cost of filters prevents resolving the problem. However, she suggested that if new fuel is supplied before the current fuel runs out, the problem would be resolved.

She criticized the lack of skill in fuel planning as the cause of this issue.

During her tenure on the research committee of the Cyprus Turkish Electricity Authority, Manavoğlu voiced her objections regarding this matter.

She emphasized that the government should prioritize infrastructure investments, stating that power plants have become obsolete over time, and even repairs cannot restore them to their former condition.

"ELECTRICITY PRICES COULD BE HIGHER WITH CABLE, BUT ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION REDUCED"

Manavoğlu also mentioned that electricity prices might increase if a cable is introduced, but it would help reduce environmental pollution.