The consumer price index in December 2024 versus November 2024 inched 0.29% higher.
Services prices grew by 9%, food prices increased by 5% and prices of non-food items were 5.7% higher in December 2024 compared with December 2023.
During the same period, the highest food prices were recorded by margarine (+17%), fruit (+13%), vegetables (+8.6%) and beer (+8%). Instead, the biggest price drops were recorded by butter (-10%), sugar (-7%) and flour and maize (-4%-5%).
In December 2024 compared with December 2023, the highest price hikes in non-food items were recorded by detergents (+12%), tobacco and cigarettes (+10.5%). Instead, prices of natural gas are 10% lower.
In terms of services, the highest price increases were recorded by postal services (+17.8%), hygiene and cosmetics (11%), water supply, sewage collection, sanitation, rent and car repair (+nearly 10%).
The average rate of change in consumer prices over the last 12 months (January 2024-December 2024) as compared to the previous 12 months (January 2023-December 2023) is 5.6%.
The Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices in December 2024 compared to November 2024 is 100.25%.
The HICP-based annual inflation rate in December 2024 compared to December 2023 is 5.5%.
The HICP-based average rate of change in consumer prices over the last 12 months (January 2024-December 2024) as compared to the previous 12 months (January 2023-December 2023) is 5.8%.
Despite the annual inflation being on a slightly higher upward trend since November 2024, Romania ended 2024 with an inflation rate of 5.1%, below the 6.6% level recorded in December 2023.