Price growth on socially important food products halts in Kazakhstan – ministry

Tengrinews.kz – For the fourth consecutive week, prices for socially important food products in Kazakhstan have not increased, according to the Ministry of National Economy, citing 24.kz.

According to the ministry, annual inflation in August accelerated to 12.2%, compared to 11.8% in July. However, food inflation slowed down by half, with only a 0.5% increase recorded in August.

The Ministry of National Economy noted that imported goods have a significant impact on food inflation, making up 23–27% of the food product structure. To effectively contain inflation, it was proposed to strengthen import substitution programs.

The ministry also reported price decreases for vegetables and rice over the past week, and a drop in the sugar price index. It was also noted that price growth for salt and sunflower oil has slowed, largely due to price control agreements made with producers.