Energy, Commerce and Industry Minister George Papanastasiou on Wednesday announced the official launch of the e-Kalathi electronic platform. The application is set to be accessible to the public by the end of the week.

“The power of the consumer stems from knowledge and correct information, elements that are achieved through education and the development of consumer culture,” Papanastasiou said, adding that he invited the public to “explore and utilise it”.

The e-Kalathi platform aims to inform consumers about prices and availability of basic products in major supermarkets islandwide. Additionally, it will allow users to compare the cost of “baskets” with selected products per store.

“The platform, which we aspire to become a valuable tool for everyday use, is not static. It will evolve continuously, based on the feedback we receive from consumers and the stakeholders involved,” the minister added.

For a start, the platform is supposed to include prices for 478 products, divided into 20 main categories including milk and dairy products, frozen products, baby products and pet food.

In an earlier statement, Papanastasiou had announced that the launch of e-Kalathi would be followed by a three-day campaign to inform the public and would only then be made officially available.

Earlier this month the minister assured that the platform would be fully operational in June.

The rollout of e-Kalathi had been delayed on a number of occasions, with earlier delays having been related to the system’s security.

Once fully operational, the platform is expected to list several thousands of products available in supermarkets with an annual turnover of €5 million. It will comprise both a mobile application and a website.