Shopping is getting more expensive. Prices have increased in 40 of 45 categories.

Prices for everyday purchases are rising again. In August 2026, 40 of the 45 product categories monitored by the Cyprus Consumer Protection Service were more expensive than a year earlier. The study covers food, household goods, and other essential goods.

Compared to July, the situation was more mixed: prices increased in 19 categories, decreased in 25, and remained unchanged in one. Annual inflation, however, accelerated to 3.5 percent, further putting pressure on household budgets.

What has gone up in price in a month?

The largest monthly increase was recorded in the category of bouillon cubes and concentrates. Their average price increased by 3.7 percent compared to July and was 11.3 percent higher than in August of last year.

Fresh vegetables and herbs increased in price by 3.2 percent. Compared to August 2025, their prices were 1 percent higher.

You also had to pay more for:

• Charcoal for grilling – up 2.9 percent month-on-month and 9.1 percent year-on-year,
• Sugar – up 1.9 percent monthly, but down 2.1 percent year-on-year,
• bulgur – growth of 1.4 percent per month and 4.7 percent per year,
• cheese – an increase of 1.4 percent in a month and 3.2 percent year-on-year.

The data shows that the increases aren't confined to just one type of product. Prices are rising for both staple foods and seasonal goods.

However, some products have become cheaper.

The latest data doesn't mean that everything has gone up in price since July. Declines were recorded in 25 of the 45 categories analyzed.

The largest decline, by 11.9 percent, was seen in the average price of frozen molluscs and crustaceans. However, they were still 2 percent higher than a year ago.

Fresh fish and shellfish prices fell 4.9 percent month-over-month, but averaged 6.1 percent more annually. Laundry detergent prices fell 4.8 percent monthly and 2.2 percent annually.

Breaded and pre-prepared frozen fish also saw lower prices. This category saw a 3.9 percent decline compared to July and a whopping 18.4 percent decline compared to August 2025.

Inflation accelerated to 3.5 percent

Shopping prices in Cyprus are rising as inflation accelerates again. In August, the annual rate reached 3.5 percent.

For comparison, in July it was 2.9 percent, in June 3.1 percent, in May 2.5 percent, and in April 2.8 percent.

The Consumer Protection Service indicates that rising fuel and energy prices had a significant impact on the situation. Petroleum products were 20.3 percent more expensive, while electricity and water prices rose by 6 percent.

Higher fuel, transportation, production, and refrigeration costs may gradually impact the prices of subsequent products. This is particularly true for goods requiring temperature-controlled transportation and imported products.

Finance Minister Makis Keravnos assured that the government is monitoring inflation and may consider measures to support the economy and consumers. However, no specific new support mechanisms have yet been presented.

Data from approximately 400 stores

The study covered 250 essential products sold in approximately 400 retail outlets across the Republic of Cyprus. These included supermarkets, bakeries, kiosks, and smaller shops.

The figures provided are weighted averages. This does not mean that every product's price increased by the exact percentage indicated across all chains.

Prices vary depending on the brand, quality, package size, ongoing promotions, and the specific retailer. Differences between stores can be significant, so before making a large purchase, it's worth comparing your entire basket, not just a single promotional item.

You can compare prices at e-Kalathi

The state-run e-Kalathi platform allows users to compare prices for specific products across different stores. Users can search for a specific item, check available prices, view price history, and locate locations on a map.

Comparing prices won't stop inflation, but with regular purchases, it can limit its impact on your household budget. It's also important to remember that the cheapest product in one category doesn't always mean the cheapest overall.

Sources: Consumer Protection Service of the Republic of Cyprus, Cyprus Statistical Service, Cyprus News Agency.

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