GREEK and Turkish Cypriots spend similar amounts of money when crossing the divide, a study by the Cyprus College has shown.
The survey, carried out in association with the Central Bank, compared the current spending habits of the two communities to figures available for May 2003, right after the partial lifting of restrictions on the freedom of movement.
The latest data, gathered this summer, indicate that Turkish Cypriots crossing over to the south shell out slightly more than Greek Cypriots visiting the occupied areas. Based on polls taken at checkpoints in June and July, the average Turkish Cypriot spends £11.74 daily. Back in May 2003, the corresponding figure was significantly lower, at just £5.68.
Approximately 6,000 Turkish Cypriots cross the checkpoints every day; those who work in the south spend £4.39 a day on average, while the rest spend £15.54. Total daily expenditure amount to an estimated £70,000, or £25 million a year.
The annual income of Turkish Cypriots employed in the Republic-controlled areas is around £27 million, very close to the total amount of expenditure.
A breakdown of the numbers reveals that most of their hard-earned cash goes on shopping; some £17 million is poured into buying commodities from supermarkets and other stores.
Payment is through credit cards and cash, using the Cypriot pound. This element points to increasing links between the two economies on the island, as Greek Cypriots travelling to the north also use the Republic’s currency for purchases.
Although fewer Greek Cypriots travel to the north, their individual expenditures tend to be greater than their Turkish Cypriot counterparts, which works out to a total amount of £20 to £25 million a year.
Greeks now typically dish out £17,15 per visit, significantly more than the £12 recorded for May 2003. Cabaret and casinos take up £3.81, transport £3.37, food and beverages £4.29, shopping £5.21, and miscellaneous expenditures £0.28.
There are three categories of Greek Cypriots: those going on pilgrimages or to see their ancestral homes, and those who make purchases and seek entertainment. Approximately one-third of visitors currently are non-refugees who go to the north to buy cheaper fuel, do their shopping and visit casinos. About 500 people gamble huge amounts in Turkish Cypriot casinos every day.
