KUWAIT CITY, Oct 21: Data from the Central Statistical Bureau reveals that the consumer price index (CPI), indicating inflation, increased locally by 2.75% in September compared to the same month last year.

In a report released to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Monday, the Bureau noted that the inflation rate in Kuwait rose by 0.15% in September on a monthly basis, compared to August.

The annual increase in inflation is attributed to rising prices in major categories that influence the consumer price index, particularly in clothing, food, education, and housing.

According to the report, the index for the food and beverages category rose by 5.8% in September compared to the same month in 2023, while the price index for cigarettes and tobacco increased slightly by 0.15% year-on-year.

The clothing category saw an increase of 5.66% in its price index, and housing services experienced a rise of 0.57%. Additionally, the inflation rate for household furnishings increased by 3.99%.

The report also indicated that the price index for health services rose by 4.38%, whereas transportation prices decreased by 1.61% in September compared to the same month in 2023.

Furthermore, the report highlights that prices in the communications category rose by 2.20% year-on-year, while the inflation rate for entertainment and culture increased by 2.34%. Prices in the education category saw a rise of 0.79%.

The restaurant and hotel category experienced a year-on-year price increase of 2.05% in September, while miscellaneous goods and services rose by 5.39%.

Finally, the Bureau noted that the inflation rate in Kuwait, excluding the food and beverage category, increased by 2.03% year-on-year in August. (KUNA)