South Africa: Fuel Price Surge Pushes Consumer Price Inflation to 4.5 Percent in May

South Africa: Fuel Price Surge Pushes Consumer Price Inflation to 4.5 Percent in May

[SAnews.gov.za] South Africa's consumer inflation rate rose to 4.5% in May 2026, up from 4.0% in April, marking the highest annual rate recorded since July 2024, when inflation stood at 4.6%.

South Africa's consumer inflation rises to 4.5 pct in May on higher fuel prices

South Africa's consumer inflation rises to 4.5 pct in May on higher fuel prices

South Africa Inflation Rises To 4.5% In May 2026 As Fuel Prices Surge

South Africa’s annual inflation rate accelerated to 4.5% in May 2026, up from 4.0% recorded in April, as rising fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East added fresh pressure to consumer prices and complicated the country’s monetary policy outlook. New data released by Statistics South Africa showed that prices increased by 0.7% on a monthly basis in May, with transport expenses and housing-related costs emerging among the bi…

Fuel price surge drives South African inflation to 4.5%

A dramatic fuel price surge has pushed South Africa's inflation rate to its highest since mid-2024, affecting household budgets across the country:

Fuel Price Surge Pushes Consumer Price Inflation To 4.5% In May

South Africa’s consumer inflation rate rose to 4.5% in May 2026, up from 4.0% in April, marking the highest annual rate recorded since July 2024, when inflation stood at 4.6%. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0.7% in May. In a statement released on Wednesday, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) attributed the increase in inflation primarily to higher fuel prices. The fuel index recorded a second consecutive sharp monthly i…

Lowest inflation province: Where South Africans are feeling relief

South Africa’s headline consumer price inflation rose to 4.5% in May 2026, but the lowest inflation province in the country is providing unexpected relief for its residents. Limpopo recorded an inflation rate of just 3.3%, sharply contrasting with the mounting cost-of-living pressures currently squeezing everyday consumers across other major urban hubs. According to the latest Consumer Price Index statistical release published by Statistics Sout…