Turkish Citizens Cross Border for Cheaper Groceries

Economic Disparity Drives Cross-Border Shopping

Turkish citizens are increasingly traveling to neighboring Greece to purchase everyday groceries due to significantly lower food prices. The price difference has become so pronounced that even regular trips are being made solely for shopping purposes.

Key Products Driving Cross-Border Trade

• Olive oil: €10 per liter in Greece vs double the price in Turkey
• Cheese and wine: Significantly cheaper in Greece compared to Turkey
• Other food products: Various grocery items are more affordable in Greece

Impact on Consumer Behavior

The substantial price difference has led to a regular cross-border shopping phenomenon. Turkish citizens like Cihan Citak, a general manager at a food and beverage company, make regular trips from Istanbul to Alexandroupolis in Greece, a journey of about four hours by car. The practice has become so common that it highlights the growing economic disparity between Turkey and Greece, particularly in food prices.

Broader Economic Implications

This cross-border shopping trend not only demonstrates the power of price differentials in shaping consumer behavior but also underscores the economic challenges faced by Turkey in maintaining competitive pricing for essential goods. The situation reflects broader economic issues including inflation, currency valuation, and supply chain costs that are driving the price discrepancies between the two neighboring countries.