Armenia's annual inflation reaches 5.1% as prices for essential goods climb

Consumer prices in Armenia rose 5.1% in June compared with the same month a year earlier, with some of the steepest increases recorded for essential food items and household expenses, according to the latest data released by the country's Statistical Committee.

Food prices increased 8.8% year over year, led by sharp rises in several staple categories. Beef prices climbed 23.4%, while fish and seafood surged 44%. Dairy products rose 14.5%, eggs increased 30%, fruit prices were up 16.8%, and vegetables rose 12.7%. Flour and cereals increased 4.6%.

Among other goods, alcoholic beverages rose 10.7%, tobacco products increased by about 7%, gasoline prices climbed 10.4%, diesel fuel rose 19%, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) surged 76.2%.

The data also showed higher prices across several service sectors. Healthcare costs increased 3.5% from a year earlier. Prices for cinemas, theaters and other cultural events rose 22.9%, while cultural services increased 12.6%. Domestic vacation packages climbed 15.9%, international holiday packages rose 24.4%, and education costs increased 8.3%.

Some categories recorded price declines. Book and newspaper prices fell 4.4%, olive oil declined 7.1%, potatoes dropped 7.4%, and automobile prices decreased 7.5%, including a 10.5% decline in used vehicle prices.