According to the Republic Bureau of Statistics, consumer prices in September 2024 increased by 4.2% compared to the same month last year. Postal services saw the highest increase, surging by 52.6%. After ending 2023 with an inflation rate of 7.6%, inflation slowed throughout the early months of 2024: 6.4% in January, 5.6% in February, and 5% in March. April maintained the 5% rate, while May dropped to 4.5%. In June, inflation further declined to 3.8%, but rose again to 4.3% in July, remaining stable in August. September’s rate dipped slightly to 4.2%.
Food prices rose by 3.3% over the past year, with only vegetable prices declining by 1.3%. All other food categories increased, notably “sugar, jam, honey, and chocolate,” which rose by 14.7%. Fruit prices went up by 12.2%, while “coffee, tea, and cocoa” increased by 8.9%. Tobacco prices climbed by 9.4%. Mineral water, soft drinks, and juices saw a 5.9% increase, while alcoholic beverages became 7.7% more expensive. Beer prices rose by 8.4%, and wine increased by 6.5%.
In healthcare, medical services rose the most, by 13.3%. Non-hospital services increased by 7.9%, and medicines by 5.8%. Veterinary services also rose significantly, with an increase of 16.4%.
Housing costs saw a substantial rise, with real housing rents up by 15.2%. Furniture repair services increased by 7.8%, while clothing repairs went up by 11.7%. Clothing prices rose by 4.8%, and clothing materials by 7.9%. Water supply prices increased by 8.9%, and garbage collection costs rose by 23.7%. Package arrangements saw a price increase of 14.8%, with recreation rising by 12.3%. Hairdressing and beauty salon services increased by 15.7%.
In terms of energy costs, household electricity is now 7.3% more expensive, and gas prices rose by 9.8%. District heating prices increased by 3.3%. However, solid fuels are cheaper, with firewood prices dropping by 6.5% compared to September 2023.
On a monthly basis, prices for personal consumption products and services rose by 0.1% in September 2024 compared to August. Price increases were noted in several categories: Restaurants and hotels (1.3%), Food and non-alcoholic beverages (1.2%), and Apartment equipment and maintenance (0.8%). However, prices fell in Recreation and Culture (-3.0%), Transport (-1.6%), and Clothing and Footwear (-0.2%). Other prices remained relatively stable.
