Sudan annual inflation slows to 60.26% in January

February 17, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s annual inflation rate fell to 60.26% in January from 68% the previous month, the Central Bureau of Statistics said on Tuesday, as the country sees a sustained decline from the record price increases seen in recent years.

The inflation rate has been on a downward trajectory since peaking in July 2021 at the highest level in the nation’s history. While the rate stood at 74.02% in November 2025 before its most recent declines, the cooling of price growth comes despite the continued depreciation of the Sudanese pound against foreign currencies and the persistent high cost of basic commodities.

In a statement seen by Sudan Tribune, the statistics bureau reported that the general consumer price index stood at 606,095.49 points in January, down from 631,072.80 points in December. This represents a monthly decrease of 24,977.31 points, or a negative monthly change of 3.96%.

The bureau tracks price volatility using a basket of 663 goods that reflect the consumption patterns of various economic and social segments in both urban and rural regions. The index is divided into 12 main categories, including food and beverages, tobacco, clothing, housing, electricity, fuel, healthcare, transport, and education.

Despite the statistical improvement in inflation figures, the humanitarian situation remains precarious. Sudanese households continue to face severe economic hardship and a decline in purchasing power due to the ongoing conflict, which has eroded income sources and disrupted internal trade routes.

However, a relative improvement in security in Khartoum and several other states has triggered a shift in population movement. For the first time in nearly three years, a significant number of citizens are expected to spend the holy month of Ramadan in the capital.

Thousands of Sudanese refugees who fled to neighbouring countries have also begun returning home. Local officials anticipate the volume of returnees will increase further following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, provided the current security gains are maintained across the country’s flashpoints.