Highlights
The cost of living as reported by Central Statistics Agency increased by 19 % in September 2012 compared to last year the same month. In September 2012, the year-to-year food and cereal inflation rate increased respectively by 17.7% and 24.1%.
The trend of import parity prices in the reference markets has showed stable situation at high level; compared to August 2012, wheat and sorghum price showed 2% and 1% price increases whilst maize decreased by 3%.
The nominal wholesale prices of monitored cereals were showing mixed trends with steadily upward push. However, in September the prices of white maize, the most widely consumed cereal, has shown major changes in most of wholesale markets.
In September 2012, the nominal retail price of maize in most monitored markets showed mixed changes not exceeding 5% against previous month; except at Yabelo and Alamata where price increased by about 7% and price decreased by 14% at Gode market.
The price of shoat in Gode and Dire Dawa has increased following improved demand for livestock both locally and in the Gulf countries. This situation coupled with stability of staple cereal price in these markets lead to improved terms of trade.
