Staff Reporter :
Bangladesh’s inflation eased for the second consecutive month in October, dipping to 8.17 percent from 8.36 percent in September, according to fresh figures released on Wednesday by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).
The latest reading also marks a substantial improvement from 10.87 percent in the same month last year, signaling a gradual cooling of consumer prices after months of persistent pressure.
A BBS line chart tracking the inflation trajectory shows a steady downward movement, with the October figure representing one of the lowest levels seen in recent months.
Food prices traditionally a key driver of inflation in Bangladesh showed a modest decline as food inflation fell to 7.08 percent, down from 7.64 percent in September. The easing suggests improved supply conditions and seasonal benefits from fresh harvest arrivals.
On the other hand, non-food inflation inched up to 9.13 percent from 8.98 percent a month earlier, highlighting continued cost pressure in areas such as housing, healthcare, and transportation.
Analysts note that global commodity trends, utility tariff adjustments, and domestic market factors may be contributing to the firmness in non-food prices.
A year earlier in October 2023, food inflation had stood sharply higher at 12.66 percent, while non-food inflation was 9.34 percent, underscoring a notable year-on-year cooling in overall price levels particularly in food items.
Despite the easing trend, inflation still remains above the government’s target, posing challenges for household budgets amid broader economic headwinds.
Overall, the latest figures indicate cautious progress in taming inflationary pressures, though sustained policy measures and stable market conditions will be crucial to ensure continued relief for consumers in the coming months.
