March brought the next wave of prices to Ukrainians. Food and clothing went up the most. The total inflation in the annual dimension increased to 14.6% - the highest rate since May 2023.
According to official data of the State Statistics Service, consumer prices increased by 1.7% in March compared to February. The greatest rise in:
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eggs - +18.8%;
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fruits - +6.6%;
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soft drinks - +2.2%;
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sunflower oil - +1.7%.
Among non -food products, the leaders of the rise in prices were:
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clothing and shoes - +13.3%;
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management services in apartment buildings - +9.5%;
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rail tickets - +4.4%;
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Medical goods - +1.9%.
Causes of Inflation Inflation: What was the impetus
Experts explain that inflation has accelerated both seasonal and fundamental factors. First, last year's weak crop due to bad weather affected the stocks of products, including fruits. Secondly, business costs are increasing-energy, logistics and wages.
The low -base of the comparison also played a role - in March 2024, inflation was only 0.5%, so the current figures look sharply higher.
What to wait next
Analysts predict that increased inflation will last at least May. Further, a gradual decrease is possible. However, the main risk is the war that continues to press on the economy.
The NBU expects inflation at 8.4% by the end of 2025. The International Monetary Fund forecasts 9%and the government is 9.5%. Already in April, the National Bank can adjust its forecasts up due to the acceleration of inflationary processes.
