Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic visited the traffic road between Sveta Nedelja and Dubovica

The question of whether the same products cost more on the island of Hvar than in Osijek has sparked public interest and debate. In response to this inquiry, *Index.hr* conducted a detailed comparison of prices for several everyday groceries between these two locations. The findings revealed significant price disparities, particularly for items such as bread, eggs, and poultry, which were notably more expensive on Hvar compared to their counterparts in Osijek. This discrepancy has raised concerns among residents and visitors alike, prompting discussions about the economic conditions and market dynamics on the island.

For instance, the price range for white bread on Hvar varied from 1.15 euros to 2.35 euros for different brands and quantities, while in Osijek, similar products were available starting at just 0.20 euros. Eggs also showed a stark contrast, with prices on Hvar ranging from 2.45 euros to 3.89 euros, whereas in Osijek, they started at 1.49 euros. These differences highlight the challenges faced by consumers on Hvar, where local markets may lack competition or have limited supply chains, leading to higher costs. The disparity underscores broader issues related to transportation, logistics, and the overall economic structure of the island.

Premier Andrej Plenković, during his visit to the newly constructed motorway connecting Sveti Nikola and Dubovica on Hvar, emphasized the importance of infrastructure projects in improving connectivity and quality of life. The 6.2-kilometer-long motorway, valued at over four million euros—with 2.5 million contributed by the government—was hailed as a major investment in tourism, commerce, and regional development. Plenković noted that the new route would significantly reduce travel times between Hvar and Sveti Nikola, cutting the journey down to around twenty minutes. He further highlighted how this project aligns with national priorities, including the integration of regions such as Trogir, Kastel, Split, and Omiš into a cohesive transport network.

The motorway's completion marks a pivotal moment for the island’s infrastructure, offering improved access to essential services, emergency responses, and business opportunities. Local officials, including Župan Blaženko Boban and Ravnatelj Petar Škorić, praised the project for its potential to enhance safety, connectivity, and economic growth. They pointed out that the motorway would not only benefit residents but also contribute to the island's attractiveness as a tourist destination. The project was described as one of the most important road developments on Hvar in the past three decades, reflecting the government's commitment to supporting rural and coastal communities.

Beyond the immediate benefits of better roads, the motorway is part of a larger vision for regional development. Plans include the expansion and reconstruction of the road linking Sucuraj and Jelsa, divided into three phases of twelve kilometers each. These efforts aim to create a more integrated transport system across the region, fostering economic activity and enhancing mobility for both locals and tourists. Such initiatives are seen as crucial for maintaining the competitiveness of Hvar within Croatia’s tourism sector and ensuring sustainable development.

While the focus on infrastructure highlights progress, the ongoing issue of high living costs on Hvar remains a pressing concern. The price comparisons reveal that despite improvements in transportation and accessibility, the economic pressures on daily necessities persist. Residents and businesses continue to navigate these challenges, seeking ways to optimize resources and improve affordability. As the government moves forward with its infrastructure plans, addressing the root causes of inflation and supply chain inefficiencies will remain critical to ensuring long-term prosperity for the island’s population.