Tunisia inflation slows to 5.3% in June

Tunisia's annual inflation rate eased to 5.3% in June, a slight decrease from 5.4% in May, according to data released by the National Institute of Statistics (INS). This moderation was largely attributed to a slowdown in the rise of food prices.

The "Food and beverages" group saw prices increase by 7.1% in June, down from 8.2% the previous month. However, prices for tobacco and for leisure and culture activities experienced a slight acceleration. Over the year, food prices rose 7.1%, with notable increases in sheep meat (18.3%), beef (13.6%), poultry (13.5%), fresh fish (11.7%), and fresh fruit (11%). Conversely, prices for cooking oils (-5.5%) and eggs (-3.1%) declined.

Manufactured goods prices increased by 4.7% year-on-year, driven by a rise in clothing and footwear prices (9.2%). Services prices climbed 4.3%, largely due to higher accommodation costs (15.4%). Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, stood at 4.9% in June, up from 4.8% in May. On a monthly basis, the consumer price index rose 0.2%, influenced by increases in clothing and footwear (1.7%) and in restaurants, cafes, and hotels (1%). Food prices, however, decreased by 0.9% month-on-month, with poultry, fresh vegetables, eggs, fresh fruit, and sheep meat prices falling.