Food prices, housing, and transport costs are rising in Bulgaria

In August 2021, the consumer price index saw a monthly inflation of 0.8%, resulting in an overall year-to-date inflation of 3.1% and an annual inflation rate of 3.7%. This report details a mixed picture of price changes across various categories, with food and non-alcoholic beverages experiencing a 1.2% increase, housing-related costs rising by 0.7%, transport fees soaring by 3.0%, and entertainment and culture costs increasing by 0.4%. On the other hand, prices for alcoholic beverages and tobacco products fell by 0.2%, along with clothing and footwear by 3.4%. Notably, there were significant price hikes in essential food items such as flour, bread, beef, dairy products, and vegetables, while items like bread, pork, poultry meat, and some fruits saw price decreases. Additionally, non-food items and services witnessed price fluctuations, with some categories like repair materials, heating fuels, furniture, and electronics becoming more expensive, while items like clothing, tires, spare parts, and some services became cheaper. Medication prices fell by 0.2%, medical services by 0.3%, and dental services remained stable. Prices for goods and services aimed at the lowest 20% of households also experienced some adjustments, with food products seeing an increase of 0.8% and non-food products and services remaining stable.