Inflation Eased Slightly in June; Electricity Prices Exploded by Almost 60% in a Year

Romania's annual inflation rate saw a slight moderation in June 2026, falling to 10.42% from 10.9% in May, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics (INS). Despite this marginal decrease, inflation remains at a high level, with services continuing to experience the most significant price hikes.

In April 2026, the annual inflation rate had reached 10.7%, making the June figures the first noticeable reduction in recent months. Compared to the same period last year, services have become more expensive by 13.67%, non-food goods by 12.29%, and food products by 5.75%.

Within the food category, coffee remains the product with the highest price increase, costing 19.9% more than in June 2025. Eggs follow, with a 13.66% rise, and cow's milk is up by 12.13%. Significant increases were also recorded for beef (+11.95%), sugar and honey products (+9.44%), bread (+8.19%), beer (+8.18%), fresh fish (+7.73%), poultry (+6.73%), wine (+6.60%), oil (+5.92%), and cow cheese (+5.83%). Conversely, some food items became cheaper, with the largest decreases seen in potatoes (-14.47%) and fresh fruits (-9.48%).

Electricity remains a primary driver of inflation in the non-food goods category, with an annual increase of nearly 60% (59.97%) following the removal of price capping schemes. Fuel prices also saw substantial increases: gasoline is 22.74% more expensive, and diesel is up by 28.16% compared to June 2025. Other notable price rises include thermal energy (+10.70%), books, newspapers, and magazines (+10.76%), detergents (+9.41%), natural gas (+4.70%), and medicines (+4.30%).

Services continued to show the highest annual price growth rate at 13.67%. Rents experienced the most significant increase, rising by 43.29% compared to June 2025. Other services with substantial price hikes include water, sewage, and sanitation (+16.10%), shoe and clothing repair (+14.55%), car repairs (+14.58%), and hygiene and cosmetic services (+14.24%). Road transport costs rose by 13.06%, and urban transport by 8.94%.