‘People's inflation’ for basic goods at 177 percent in Turkey
According to a recent report by a union of public employees, inflation level for basic consumer goods in Turkey has reached 177.5 percent compared to last year. Fruit prices have surged by 229.9 percent, while the prices of dairy products and eggs have climbed by 150.2 percent since October 2021.
Duvar English
The research and development branch of the Confederation of Public Employees' Unions (KAMU-AR) published a report based on prices at markets and bazaars in the capital of Ankara, concluding that inflation level for basic consumer goods has reached 177.5 percent compared to October of last year.
Meanwhile, food prices have increased 110.6 percent overall during the first nine months of 2022, with the prices of fruits and vegetables increased 205.2 and 256.9 percent respectively.
Compared to October 2021, fruit prices have surged by 229.9 percent, while the prices of dairy products and eggs have climbed by 150.2 percent since this month last year.
The monthly inflation for basic foods was 6.3 percent in October 2022.
The report indicated that increases in agricultural costs will keep the annual inflation in food prices at triple-digit rates in the coming months.
The government-run Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) has reported an annual inflation rate of 83.45 percent in September, the highest since 1998, whereas the independent inflation group ENAG put the figure at 186.27 percent. Polls show Turks believe inflation is far higher than official data.
Many citizens in Turkey struggle to make ends meet amid massive increases in the costs of living.