Consumer Prices Up 1.2% in July; Food, Rentals, and LPG Drive Costs

Belizean households faced a 1.2 percent rise in consumer prices in July 2025; however, falling fuel and transport costs offered some relief against higher food, rental, and liquefied petroleum gas expenses.

The Statistical Institute of Belize reported that the national Consumer Price Index stood at 120.4 in July, up from 118.9 the previous year. Inflation was concentrated in essential categories, while declines were noted in transport and communication.

Food and Beverages rose by 2 percent, driven by an almost 8 percent jump in non-alcoholic drinks such as purified water, soft drinks, and juices. Fresh meats also climbed by 3 percent, with pork and poultry among the most affected products.

Housing, Utilities, and Fuels increased by 2.6 percent, largely reflecting higher home rental costs and LPG prices. A hundred-pound cylinder of LPG cost $130.09 in July, nearly $12 more than a year ago.

By contrast, transport costs fell 2 percent, owing to lower fuel prices. Diesel dropped to $11.34 per gallon, while regular gasoline fell to $11.86 and premium to $13.22. Still, intercity taxi fares surged more than 11 percent, offsetting some of the gains from cheaper fuel.

Across municipalities, San Pedro Town experienced the sharpest price increases at 3.1 percent, reflecting higher costs across food, housing, and personal care. In dependence Village recorded a marginal 0.9 percent decline, with lower prices for clothing, furniture, alcohol, and food staples such as beans and corn.

On a month-to-month basis, prices rose by 0.6 percent between June and July, led by vegetables like lettuce, peppers, and tomatoes, which spiked by 13.3 percent in just one month. Year-to-date, inflation averaged 1.4 percent, with food, housing, and personal care categories accounting for nearly 90 percent of the total rise.