Food prices in Kazakhstan have declined for the second consecutive month.
At a government meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin, participants reviewed inflation trends and measures to further stabilize prices.
According to the Ministry of Trade and Integration, food inflation has been declining for the second consecutive month, maintaining a deflationary trend of -0.1%. Socially significant food products have made a substantial contribution to slowing price growth. Since the beginning of the year, prices for these goods have increased by 1.8%, compared to 8.3% over the same period last year — 4.6 times lower.
Over the past week, sugar prices fell by 2.4%, onions by 1.7%, apples and carrots by 0.9%, rice by 0.5%, and lamb by 0.4%. Prices for bread, pasta, butter, salt, and tea remained unchanged during the reporting week.
At the same time, the onset of colder weather has led to price increases for cucumbers (4.6%), cabbage and tomatoes (3.7%), and potatoes (2.4%). To stabilize prices for greenhouse vegetables during the coming winter and spring, a memorandum will be signed with their producers.
Agricultural fairs remain one of the most effective tools for containing prices, allowing consumers to purchase products directly from producers. In addition, from October 17 to 27, the Bereke Fest and Republic Day promotional campaigns are being held across all regions of the country, with 649 retail outlets participating. The campaigns offer discounts of up to 50% on everyday essentials and popular food products.
Serik Zhumangarin heard reports from the regional administrations where food inflation has increased and instructed all regions to expand the number of agricultural fairs and ensure an adequate supply of essential food products at affordable prices.
