The Zambia Statistics Agency has announced that the country’s annual inflation rate for June 2026 eased slightly to 6.5 percent, down from 6.6 percent recorded in May 2026, reflecting a continued but gradual slowdown in the pace of price increases across the economy.
Zamstats Statistician General Sheila Mudenda says the moderation in inflation was driven by movements in both food and non-food items. Food inflation declined to 6.7 percent from 6.9 percent in May, while non-food inflation also eased to 6.0 percent from 6.1 percent over the same period. The reductions were largely influenced by price movements in essential commodities such as cereals, cooking oil and eggs, as well as transport, fuel and accommodation-related costs.
Meanwhile, Ms. Mudenda says the economy expanded, with various sectors collectively contributing to a 7.7 percent growth rate.
Agriculture, forestry and fishing remained the largest driver, contributing 1.5 percentage points to overall growth, underscoring its continued dominance in the production structure.
Other key contributors included wholesale and retail trade, information and communication, transport and storage, and manufacturing, each contributing about 0.5 percentage points.
Mining, financial services, construction, and accommodation and food services also recorded moderate gains. However, electricity supply, water supply, and arts and entertainment recorded no contribution during the period, while administrative services posted a slight negative impact.
By Rachel Mumba
