Food inflation slows but... :: Mmegi Online

The annual rate of increase in the average prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages slowed to 5.4 percent in February from 6.1 percent in January, cold comfort before expected increases of fuel and electricity in April apply pressure.

Figures released by Statistics Botswana recently indicate that the rate of increase of prices of vegetables and meat decelerated in February, while other key items remained robust or rising. The 12 months to February, the average prices of oils and fats were up 8.1 percent, compared to seven percent in January, while uncategorised food items were up 11 percent from 10.6 percent.

The slowdown in food inflation comes as households brace for a spiral in prices, with expectations that electricity tariffs could rise substantially from April 1, while government is also considering an increase in commuter passenger fares.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.