Jamaica closed December 2025 with consumer prices climbing at a faster pace, driven primarily by rising food and household utility costs, according to the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN).
The national Consumer Price Index rose by 1.3 per cent for the month, with food items accounting for the bulk of the increase. The sharpest movements came from fresh produce, where prices surged across vegetables, roots, and fruits. Weather-related disruptions from Hurricane Melissa tightened supply, sending market prices higher and placing immediate pressure on household budgets.
Vegetables, plantains, cooking bananas and pulses recorded one of the steepest gains, while fruits and nuts also posted strong increases. Together, these categories explained much of the inflation recorded in December.
Housing-related expenses added further momentum. Electricity charges, rental costs, and water services all rose during the month, lifting the broader “housing and utilities” category by more than two per cent. Energy and shelter, once again, proved to be structural drivers of price movement.
On an annual basis, inflation settled at 4.5 per cent for the period ending December 2025. Food prices remained the dominant contributor over the year, rising by more than seven per cent. Housing and utilities followed, while restaurant and accommodation services also posted notable gains, reflecting higher operating costs being passed through to consumers.
Within food, every category advanced over the twelve-month period. Root crops and vegetables showed the strongest acceleration, reflecting persistent supply constraints. Seafood prices also climbed sharply, led by increases in salted fish and popular canned varieties.
Housing costs continued their upward drift, with imputed rents and water-related services recording the most pronounced changes. Higher tariffs and service charges reinforced inflationary pressure in a sector already sensitive to energy and infrastructure pricing.
The December figures confirm that food security and utility pricing remain the primary inflation risks for Jamaica as the new year begins — with climate shocks and energy costs now firmly embedded as core drivers of consumer prices.
