Sudan's annual inflation accelerated to 28.29% in September from 26.14% in August, according to figures released on 21 October. Food became more expensive at an even faster pace than the overall basket, in a country where war has already weakened incomes and supply chains.
Food and beverage prices rose 36.81% over the year, affecting an essential part of household spending. Overall inflation reached 40.35% in urban areas, up from 38.05% in August, while the rural rate climbed from 19.26% to 21.18%.
Price pressures extend beyond food. The Central Bureau of Statistics reported increases in housing, transport, healthcare and clothing. Its index tracks 663 goods and services across twelve broad categories.
The price squeeze comes alongside a currency crisis. On 21 October, currency dealers quoted by Reuters reported an exchange rate of 10,000 Sudanese pounds to the dollar on the parallel market, compared with about 8,000 a month earlier. Demand for foreign currency to pay for imports and the falling pound complicate supplies of goods purchased overseas.
Fighting between the army and the Rapid Support Forces has disrupted production and trade since April 2023. The latest inflation figures measure September prices, while the dollar rate reported in October reflects more recent pressure on the currency.