Kuwait inflation supported by food, services

Kuwait experienced a notable increase in inflation in May 2026, with the consumer price index rising by 2.49 percent compared to the same month in 2025. Data from Kuwait's Central Statistical Bureau (CSB) revealed a smaller monthly increase of 0.07 percent between April and May 2026. The annual inflation surge is primarily attributed to rising prices across several essential categories. The food and beverages group saw a significant jump of 5.96 percent. Transport prices also climbed substantially, increasing by 4.46 percent year-on-year. Other sectors contributing to the overall rise include housing services, which increased by 0.49 percent, and clothing and footwear, up by 1.10 percent. Prices for household furnishings and maintenance equipment rose by 1.18 percent, while the health sector recorded an increase of 1.19 percent. The tobacco and cigarettes group saw a modest rise of 0.07 percent.