Survey reveals sharp rise in perceived inflation for meat, milk, and gasoline in Uzbekistan

In December 2024, Uzbeks reported significant price increases in several key products, including meat, milk, gasoline, and other fuels, according to a survey conducted by the Central Bank of Uzbekistan.

The survey, which included 2,674 respondents, revealed that the perceived inflation rate in December accelerated compared to November, reaching 14.7 percent. While the survey also noted a rise in the perceived prices of electricity, natural gas, fruits, vegetables, and eggs, the majority of respondents singled out meat, milk, gasoline, and other fuels as having experienced the most significant price hikes.

The highest perceived inflation rate was recorded in Tashkent city, where it reached 18.3 percent, while the lowest was observed in the Khorezm region, with a rate of 12.8 percent.

In addition to the price increases in food and fuel, the survey showed that the perception of rising costs for electricity and natural gas (45 percent of respondents), fruits and vegetables (33 percent), and eggs (29 percent) grew during the month.

The survey also highlighted that inflation was more acutely felt by individuals with lower and higher incomes. Those earning up to 2 million sums or more than 7 million sums reported inflation rates higher than the national average. Specifically, respondents with incomes exceeding 15 million sums perceived inflation at a rate of 18.4 percent. Notably, 16.3 percent of those surveyed reported having no income.

The data also indicated that those working in the manufacturing sector felt the impact of inflation more acutely, while individuals in the household services sector reported a relatively lower perception of inflation.