Prices on the eve of the end-of-year holidays, citizens complain

In Kosovo, the end-of-year holidays are not only a period of joy and festive atmosphere, but often also become a financial burden for many families.

Citizens complain that on the eve of the holidays, product prices have increased significantly, making end-of-year expenses more difficult to afford, RTK writes.

The end-of-year holidays bring a festive atmosphere, but for many families this period is also accompanied by financial challenges. As holiday preparations intensify, citizens notice a significant increase in the prices of many products, making this season more difficult for the family budget.

"Of course, prices increase during every holiday. There are discounts everywhere in the world, but here they often become more expensive. The islands are coming together and adjusting," says a citizen.

"Worse still, there's nowhere to go, they're getting noticed a lot. It's not cheap anymore, unless you find something broken," adds another.

Citizens are demanding price stabilization, especially for basic products.

"They have increased a little, but maybe the economic conditions are not very good. It also depends on imports, because we have little local production. My call is for prices to be more stable, especially basic ones," adds another citizen.

On the other hand, traders, most of them behind the cameras, justify the price increases with increased demand and supply costs. Some admit that this year prices are higher than last year, but deny that there is abuse or intentional price increases on the eve of the holidays.

According to the Kosovo Agency of Statistics, the overall harmonized consumer price index is higher by an average of 5,3% in November 2025, compared to November 2024. This is mainly explained by the increase in consumer prices in this period, including basic ones such as milk, cheese and eggs by 10,5%.