The e-kalathi price comparison tool has failed to meet its basic objectives since launching in June 2025, according to the Cyprus Consumer Association.
The tool has largely failed to help consumers identify cheaper options and contribute to lowering prices through enhanced competition, the association found.
The narrowing gap in total cost of 200 common products between the most expensive and cheapest supermarket is not a positive development, the association said.
The reduction is mainly due to price increases at the cheaper supermarket rather than price cuts at the more expensive one.
The trend is reflected in recent monthly data showing the price gap shrinking from 13% in July to 11.7% in August, 9.3% in September, 6% in October and 5.8% in November.
The association also noted that major supermarkets with island-wide presence are participating in e-kalathi with very limited product numbers, reducing consumer choice and undermining the tool’s comparative role.
Additionally, price variations between stores of the same chain were observed in November, something not seen until August.
According to the November 2025 price observatory, personal care items showed the largest increase at an average of 2.5%, whilst “other bakery items” recorded the biggest decrease at 3.5%.
The Consumer Association concluded that the continuing reduction in the price gap between the most expensive and cheapest supermarket does not constitute success but reflects pressure on lower prices, limiting the benefit the tool should secure for consumers.