Food prices fall in Antigua and Barbuda, but overall inflation rises in March 2026. The Statistics Division released the latest Consumer Price Index report. As a result, the report shows mixed price movements across the economy.

Moreover, the CPI increased by 1.7% over the year from March 2025 to March 2026. The All-Items Less Food and Energy index rose by 2.5%. However, the Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages index fell by 1.4%.

In addition, food prices showed a general decline over the year. The Food Index dropped by 1.8%. Meanwhile, Non-Alcoholic Beverages increased by 1.9%.

Furthermore, fruit prices recorded a sharp fall. The Fruit Index dropped by 18.6%. Fresh and chilled fruit prices fell by 25.2%.

At the same time, meat prices also declined. The Meat and Meat Products index fell by 7.9%. Pork, poultry, and processed meats all recorded decreases.

In addition, bread and cereals fell by 2.1%. However, some food subcategories showed mixed results. Therefore, food inflation remained uneven.

Meanwhile, transport costs drove inflation upward. The Transport Services Index rose by 47.6%. This increase came mainly from higher airfares.

Moreover, other sectors also saw increases. Education rose by 13.3%. Recreation and culture increased by 5.7%. Restaurants and hotels rose by 4.9%.

On a monthly basis, CPI increased by 0.8% in March. This followed no change in February. Therefore, inflation picked up slightly.

In addition, food prices fell by 1.5% in March. Fruit, fish, and meat all recorded declines. However, non-alcoholic beverages rose by 4.8%.

Furthermore, coffee, tea, and cocoa increased by 13.4%. Soft drinks also rose by 6.9%. Juice prices increased by 2.7%.

At the same time, rent and transport pushed prices higher. Actual rent rose by 6.2%. Transport services increased by 1.2%.

Overall, the Statistics Division continues to track price changes monthly. The CPI measures average changes in goods and services. In the end, inflation shows mixed pressures across food and transport.