Retail inflation at 16-month high of 3.9% as food items get dearer (opens original article in a new tab)

Retail inflation reached a 16-month high of 3.9% in May 2026, driven by rising food prices and fuel costs, with economists forecasting further increases.

• Retail inflation rose to 3.9% in May 2026, the highest in 16 months.
• Food prices, including tomatoes and rice, drove inflation, with CFPI at 4.8%.
• Fuel and transport costs increased due to West Asia war and logistics prices.