Inflation slows fourth straight month to 2.1%

MBABANE – Eswatini’s headline inflation has eased for the fourth consecutive month, declining to 2.1 per cent in January 2025.

The latest reading marks a continued slowdown from 2.3 per cent in December, 2.4 per cent in November, and 2.9 per cent in October, reflecting a sustained easing of inflationary pressures after elevated price levels experienced earlier in the year.

This trend suggests improving price stability for households and businesses, although key expenditure categories continue to register notable price increases.

Inflation is measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks changes in the cost of a basket of goods and services typically purchased by households.

The January outcome confirms that Eswatini is entering 2025 with inflation comfortably below the levels recorded at the start of the previous year, when price pressures were significantly higher.

The steady decline in inflation over four consecutive months signals that price pressures are easing across major consumer categories.

*…

Clothing, alcohol, tobacco record notable increases

MBABANE – Clothing and footwear recorded annual inflation of 5.0 per cent, reflecting rising costs of garments and footwear.

Although monthly prices declined slightly in January, the year-on-year increase remains elevated, adding pressure to household budgets, particularly for families with schoolgoing children and those replacing seasonal clothing.

Alcoholic beverages, tobacco and narcotics also posted an annual inflation of 5.0 per cent, driven by price increases in beer, wine, spirits and tobacco products. This category remains one of the fastest-growing contributors to inflation, partly reflecting tax adjustments, import costs and pricing strategies in the sector.

Meanwhile, transport inflation remained relatively subdued at 0.6 per cent year-on-year, reflecting stable fuel prices and limited increases in vehicle-related costs.

Passenger transport services recorded only marginal increases, helping contain transport-related inflationary pressure on households and businesses.

*Full article available on Pressreader*