Statistics South Africa released the latest inflation figures on Wednesday, noting a ten-month high of 3.5% in July, up from 3% in June. The increase places further pressure on already stretched household budgets, particularly when it comes to food.
The inflation rate increased to a 10-month high of 3.5% in July from 3% in June, the highest rate since September 2024, when it was 3.8%.
Food and non-alcoholic beverage inflation accelerated to 5.7%, with beef prices climbing nearly 29% over the past year. Vegetable prices also spiked significantly, reaching 14.6%.
Stats SA spokesperson Patrick Kelly said the rise reflects ongoing pressure on the cost of essential goods, even as some items become more affordable.
“While we have seen small decreases in a few food products, the overall trend points to continued strain on consumers. The prices of coffee, eggs, and certain milk products are becoming cheaper. Still, at the same time, we have seen electricity tariffs increase significantly, followed by the cost of electricity as well as fuel prices,” Kelly explained.
