Moldova sees sharp rise in food and heating costs
Due to recent economic crises, the prices of many goods and services have risen significantly.
For example, consumers are now paying nearly 40% more for vegetables, and heating bills have increased by as much as 70% compared to the previous season. This is happening despite the National Bureau of Statistics reporting an annual inflation rate of 8.8% for March.
According to the same source, food prices increased by 9% over the past year. The most substantial price hikes were seen in services provided to the public, which rose by just over 17%.
In March, vegetables were over 36% more expensive than in the same month last year. Fruit prices rose by more than 25%, while eggs and vegetable oil saw increases of around 13%.
The cost of centralized heating surged by more than 63%, while natural gas prices climbed over 33%.
Significant increases were also recorded in electricity prices and medical services, rising by over 25% and 22%, respectively.
According to forecasts from the National Bank, the average annual inflation rate is expected to reach 7.3% this year. In 2026, inflation is projected to drop below the 5% threshold, reaching 4.7%.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
