RIYADH: Egypt’s annual urban inflation rate eased to 13.9 percent in July, down from 14.9 percent the previous month, as falling food costs helped temper price pressures, official data showed.
Figures from the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics revealed that the monthly inflation rate declined by 0.6 percent, with the general consumer price index standing at 256.5 points.
The moderation was largely driven by significant drops in key food categories. Fruit prices plunged 11 percent, vegetables fell 7 percent, and meat and poultry were down 4.9 percent. Personal belongings also recorded a marginal decline of 0.5 percent.
However, price increases persisted in some segments. Grains and bread rose 0.4 percent, while dairy products, eggs and cheese each edged up 0.2 percent. Fish and seafood prices also gained 0.2 percent, as did beverages, coffee, tea and cocoa, while mineral water, soft drinks and natural juices climbed 0.8 percent.
Outside the food sector, inflation trends were mixed. Tobacco products saw the steepest rise at 7.8 percent. Clothing and footwear gained 0.3 percent, supported by a 0.4 percent increase in ready-made garments and a 0.2 percent rise in footwear.
FASTFACT
HIGHLIGHTS
Monthly inflation fell 0.6 percent, with the CPI at 256.5 points.
Tobacco increased 7.8 percent, while housing costs rose 0.7 percent.
Some food categories, including grains and bread, posted modest increases.
Housing costs advanced 0.7 percent, driven by a 0.8 percent increase in actual rents and a 1.7 percent rise in home maintenance expenses.
Furnishings, household equipment and routine maintenance were up 0.7 percent, home textiles rose 2.6 percent, glassware and tableware 0.6 percent, and gardening and household tools 1.2 percent.
Healthcare prices climbed 0.3 percent, reflecting a 0.6 percent increase in outpatient services and a 1.1 percent jump in hospital fees.
Transportation costs edged higher by 0.1 percent, boosted by a 0.2 percent increase in vehicle purchases and a 0.3 percent rise in private transport expenses.
Communication services rose 0.6 percent, while recreation and culture gained 0.3 percent, supported by higher spending on cultural and entertainment activities and organized tourist trips.
Hotels and restaurants recorded a 0.6 percent increase, with ready meals up 0.5 percent and hotel services up 1.5 percent. Miscellaneous goods and services grew 0.7 percent, led by a 1.2 percent rise in personal care items.
