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Morocco's Consumer Price Index Stabilizes as Core Inflation Climbs

Morocco's Consumer Price Index Stabilizes as Core Inflation Climbs
17:30 Journalists: Dakir Madiha
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Morocco's consumer prices held steady in September 2024, while core inflation continued its upward trajectory, according to the latest report from the High Commissioner of Planning (HCP). The data reveals a complex economic landscape marked by regional variations and sector-specific price fluctuations.

Price Stability Amid Mixed Signals

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) maintained its previous month's level, achieving stability through offsetting movements in key sectors. Food prices experienced a marginal decline of 0.1%, while non-food items saw an equivalent increase, effectively neutralizing overall price movement.

Year-over-year comparison shows the CPI rising by 0.8%, with food prices up 0.6% and non-food products increasing by 1.0%. This marks a moderation from August's more pronounced year-over-year increase of 1.7%.

Food Price Dynamics

Significant price movements in the food sector included:
- Fish and seafood: -6.1%
- Fruits: -2.2%
- Beverages: -0.3%
- Vegetables: +2.7%
- Meat, coffee, tea, and cocoa: +0.4%
- Oils and fats: +0.3%

Non-Food Sector Trends

The non-food sector witnessed notable shifts:
- Fuel prices: -3.2%
- Transportation costs: -2.4%
- Housing, utilities, and related services: +3.6%

Regional Variations

Price movements showed significant regional disparities:

Increases:
- Guelmim: +0.6%
- Dakhla: +0.5%
- Settat: +0.4%
- Multiple cities (Kenitra, Rabat, Laayoune, Safi, Beni-Mellal, and Errachidia): +0.3%
- Casablanca: +0.2%

Decreases:
- Al-Hoceima: -2.7%
- Agadir: -0.7%
- Tetouan and Tangier: -0.2%
- Fez and Oujda: -0.1%

Core Inflation Trends

The core inflation indicator, which excludes volatile prices and public tariffs, showed more pronounced movement:
- Monthly increase: +0.3%
- Year-over-year increase: +2.4%

These figures suggest underlying inflationary pressures persist despite overall price stability, presenting ongoing challenges for economic policymakers and consumers alike.


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