UN: Food Inflation in Afghanistan Reaches 8.2%

DID Press: Inflationary pressures in Afghanistan have intensified, with overall inflation reaching 7.8% in May and food inflation rising to 8.2%, according to a new United Nations report.

The report points to growing economic and livelihood pressures on Afghan households. Rising food prices have come amid disruptions to regional trade routes and higher transportation costs, which have complicated the supply of some essential goods.

The UN report also says restrictions and disruptions affecting trade with neighboring countries have affected imports of food, fuel and medicines, contributing to price pressures in some areas.

Higher transportation costs are another factor that can increase the final prices paid by consumers. At the same time, rising prices have reduced household purchasing power, placing additional pressure on low-income families.

The UN has previously warned that declining humanitarian assistance, population displacement, climate-related pressures and economic restrictions are placing additional strain on Afghan households and essential services.