Statistics Mauritius: Inflation Surges to 4.5% as Festive Season Ends

Household budgets across the island are under renewed strain as year-on-year inflation climbed to 4.5% in December, according to the latest figures released by Statistics Mauritius.

The jump from 4% in November represents a significant acceleration in price pressures, particularly when compared to the 2.9% recorded in December 2024.

The data confirms a persistent upward trend in the cost of living, leaving Mauritian families increasingly concerned over their purchasing power.

Key Inflation Indicators

While the monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) remained static at 108.2 between November and December, the long-term outlook remains high.

The headline inflation rate for the twelve-month period ending in December reached 3.7%, edging up from the 3.6% recorded in the previous year.

The current CPI of 108.2 stands in stark contrast to the 103.5 recorded in December 2024, highlighting a notable increase in the general price level over the last twelve months.

The Cost of the Basket: Winners and Losers

The stability of the monthly CPI was largely due to a “balancing act” between sectors.

A slight dip in the price of whisky and a 0.4% decrease in the alcohol and tobacco category helped offset a 0.5% rise in restaurant and hotel services, where high operational costs continue to bite.

For the average consumer, the reality at the checkout remains mixed:

The most significant price hikes were seen in the meat aisle. Fresh beef rose from MUR 597.46 to MUR 627.30 per kilo, while frozen mutton saw a sharp increase, jumping from MUR 518.88 to MUR 595.87 per kilo.

Additionally, a 425g tin of pilchards now costs MUR 126.53, up from MUR 119.05 a year ago.

On a more positive note for consumers, some pantry staples became more affordable.

The price of rice dropped from MUR 81.32 to MUR 75.77 per kilo, and a 340g tin of corned beef saw a slight reduction, moving from MUR 172.23 down to MUR 170.21.

Stable Grounds and Subtle Shifts

Food and non-alcoholic beverages remained generally stable through the final month of the year. Some essential staples even offered slight relief; the price of Trader’s Packed Flour saw a marginal decrease to MUR 21.28 per kilo.

Fresh whole chicken remained relatively steady, seeing only a minor increase to MUR 215.60, while “La Perle” fish rose moderately to MUR 313.55 per kilo.

However, these small mercies are being overshadowed by the sharp spikes in red meat prices, which continue to weigh heavily on the domestic food budget.

As Mauritius enters the new year, the roadmap to economic abundance remains challenged by these rising figures, leaving many to hope for a stabilization of the trend in the coming months.

Source: Le Mauricien