South African consumers received a measure of relief in May as food price inflation slowed to its lowest level in 17 months, easing pressure on household budgets despite an overall increase in consumer inflation.
According to inflation data released on Wednesday 17 June 2026, consumer prices rose by 4.5% in May, up from 4% in April. The increase was largely driven by higher fuel costs, which have been linked to ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East that have pushed global oil prices higher.
However, while fuel costs continued to weigh on consumers, food prices told a different story. Food inflation increased by just 1.6% in May, marking the slowest rate of growth in more than a year. The moderation in food prices comes as welcome news for households that have struggled with elevated food costs over the past several years.
Several food categories recorded slower price increases during the month, reflecting improving conditions in the agricultural sector.
Chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz), Wandile Sihlobo, attributed the easing food inflation to lower prices for grains and oilseeds. Improved supply conditions and favourable agricultural production have helped keep costs under control, reducing pressure across the food value chain.
South Africa’s agricultural sector has also benefited from a bumper fruit harvest, which has boosted supply and contributed to more stable prices in supermarkets and fresh produce markets.
The slowdown in food inflation is particularly significant because food is one of the largest expenses for most households, especially lower-income families. While overall inflation remains within the South African Reserve Bank’s target range, rising fuel costs continue to pose a risk to future price stability.
Economists say the latest figures highlight the contrasting forces currently shaping inflation. On one hand, global events are driving up energy costs, while on the other, strong domestic agricultural production is helping to keep food prices in check.
For consumers, the decline in food inflation offers some relief at the checkout counter, even as transport and fuel-related expenses continue to climb. Whether this trend can be sustained will depend on future weather conditions, agricultural output, and developments in global energy markets.
For now, South Africans can take comfort in one positive development: the cost of putting food on the table is rising at its slowest pace in nearly a year and a half.
