South Africa Sees Lowest Food Price Inflation Since 2010 Amid Global Concerns

Global food price inflation has been a concern in recent months due to various factors such as the US-Iran war, drought and heatwaves in Europe and the Americas, and Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.

However, South Africa is currently benefiting from ample agricultural output from the 2025-26 season, with consumer food price inflation slowing to 0.6% in July from 1.4% in June, the lowest level since 2010.

Cereal products are experiencing deflation due to strong grain production, with summer grains and oilseeds forecast at a record 21.6 million tonnes, up 5% from the 2024-25 season.

Meat price inflation has also eased in South Africa due to ongoing cattle slaughter and increased domestic supplies during foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks, while poultry production conditions remain favorable.