November ECPI Report Shows Slight Drop in Food Prices, Beverages Rise

The Maldives Bureau of Statistics reported a marginal decrease in the cost of essential food items for the month of November. According to the latest Essential Commodities Price Index (ECPI), overall food prices fell by 1.11 percent, contributing to a 0.69 percent decline in the index for basic food items compared to October. A detailed breakdown shows price reductions across most food categories. The cost of fruits saw the most significant drop, decreasing by 4.5 percent, followed by vegetables at 0.76 percent. Prices for eggs and dairy products fell by 0.80 percent, while tuna became 0.41 percent cheaper. Minor declines were also recorded for chicken and meat (0.04 percent) and for cooking oil and cheese (0.19 percent). In contrast, beverage prices increased by 0.55 percent during the same period. The report also noted a year-on-year decrease of 0.83 percent in the prices of fuel and gas. The ECPI, compiled by the Ministry of Economy and Trade, monitors the prices of essential household goods. The ministry states the index is a vital tool for identifying market trends and working to stabilise the cost of essential commodities for Maldivian households.