Spain sees sharp food price hikes and modest transport cost drops, OCU reports
The OCU says Spain’s consumer basket has experienced steep rises in fresh produce and eggs, while train fares fell, contributing to a 4.9% annual inflation rate.
The Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) released data showing that Spain’s cost of living has risen sharply, with 29 categories increasing by over 5% in the last year. Fresh berries jumped 47.4%, tomatoes and peppers rose 17.3%, and eggs were up 12.3%, while citrus fruit and tropical fruit also saw double-digit hikes. Fuel costs were a major driver, as liquid fuels climbed 64.7% and diesel and petrol rose 34% and 27.5% respectively, contributing to a 4.9% annual inflation rate in September, the highest since February 2023.
Some relief appeared in transport, as passenger rail fares fell 11.2% and sea passenger transport dropped 7.3%. Other modest declines included newspapers and sports equipment. The OCU advises shoppers to compare prices across categories such as food, energy, fuel, insurance, travel and electronics to mitigate the widespread price pressure.
