Africa has become the continent with the highest number of people suffering from hunger, according to the UN's latest State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2026 report. Nearly 309 million Africans, or 20% of the continent's population, are facing undernourishment despite a slight improvement in hunger rates.

The report highlights that 66.6% of Africans cannot afford a healthy diet, more than double the level recorded in Asia. Climate change, armed conflicts, economic hardship, rising food prices, and the impact of the Iran conflict on energy and fertilizer costs have worsened food insecurity across the continent.


Africa becomes world's hunger epicentre | 309 Million face food crisis | UN report 2026

Food price pressures are intensifying globally, with rice inflation surging since the start of the Iran war, driven by soaring fertiliser costs. In this next report of news in numbers, we dive into the details.


Global Food Price Inflation: Key Highlights

What started as an energy shock is spiralling into the global food system. Fuel prices usually correct following diplomatic developments around Iran, but fertiliser markets continue to remain under stress.
The big question… are we heading toward the next food inflation cycle?

Fertiliser Spike Signals Incoming Food Inflation

India&rsquo;s retail inflation, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), eased to 3.16 per cent in April, from 3.34 per cent in March. It is the lowest year-on-year inflation since July 2019, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics &amp; Programme Implementation on May 13.
The moderation in inflation was primarily driven by a significant decline in food prices. Food inflation fell sharply to 1.78 per cent in April from 2.69 per cent in March&mdash;a decline of 91 basis points. This is the lowest level of food inflation recorded since October 2021.
The steep decline is attributed to lower inflation in vegetables, pulses, fruits, meat and fish, personal care items, and cereals.
Rural inflation slowed more sharply, falling to 2.92 per cent in April from 3.25 per cent in March. Rural food inflation dropped to 1.85 per cent from 2.82 per cent. In urban areas, inflation dipped to 3.36 per cent from 3.43 per cent, while urban food inflation saw a more pronounced decline to 1.64 per cent from 2.48 per cent in March.
Kerala witnessed the highest inflation at 5.94 per cent year-on-year, followed by Karnataka (4.26 per cent), Jammu &amp; Kashmir (4.25 per cent) and Punjab (4.09 per cent), while Telangana and Delhi saw the lowest inflation at 1.26 per cent and 1.77 per cent, respectively.
Among key components, housing inflation remained stable at 3.00 per cent compared to 3.03 per cent in March, while education inflation ticked up to 4.13 per cent from 3.98 per cent. Health inflation remained flat at 4.25 per cent.
But notably, fuel and light inflation advanced to 2.92 per cent, from 1.42 per cent the previous month. Transport and communication inflation rose to 3.73 per cent from 3.36 per cent.
<h2 dir="ltr">RBI&rsquo;s target holds steady</h2>
The Reserve Bank of India, which has been mandated to ensure inflation remains at 4 per cent with a margin of 2 per cent on either side, has cut the key interest rate by 50 basis points in two tranches (February and April) to 6 per cent underpinned by easing inflation.
The central bank has projected the CPI inflation for the financial year 2025-26 at 4 per cent, with Q1 at 3.6 per cent, Q2 at 3.9 per cent, Q3 at 3.8 per cent, and Q4 at 4.4 per cent.
With inflation trends remaining well within the target range, market expectations for a potential rate cut in the upcoming meeting of RBI&rsquo;s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in June have strengthened.
&nbsp;

Business & Economy: The moderation in inflation was primarily driven by a decline in food prices. Food inflation fell to 1.78 per cent, the lowest since October 2021.

India’s retail inflation, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), eased to 3.16 per cent in April, from 3.34 per cent in March. It is the lowest year-on-year inflation since July 2019, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation on May 13. The moderation in inflation was primarily driven by a significant decline in food prices. Food inflation fell sharply to 1.78 per cent in April from 2.69 per cent in March—a decline of 91 basis points. This is the lowest level of food inflation recorded since October 2021. The steep decline is attributed to lower inflation in vegetables, pulses, fruits, meat and fish, personal care items, and cereals. Rural inflation slowed more sharply, falling to 2.92 per cent in April from 3.25 per cent in March. Rural food inflation dropped to 1.85 per cent from 2.82 per cent. In urban areas, inflation dipped to 3.36 per cent from 3.43 per cent, while urban food inflation saw a more pronounced decline to 1.64 per cent from 2.48 per cent in March. Kerala witnessed the highest inflation at 5.94 per cent year-on-year, followed by Karnataka (4.26 per cent), Jammu & Kashmir (4.25 per cent) and Punjab (4.09 per cent), while Telangana and Delhi saw the lowest inflation at 1.26 per cent and 1.77 per cent, respectively. Among key components, housing inflation remained stable at 3.00 per cent compared to 3.03 per cent in March, while education inflation ticked up to 4.13 per cent from 3.98 per cent. Health inflation remained flat at 4.25 per cent. But notably, fuel and light inflation advanced to 2.92 per cent, from 1.42 per cent the previous month. Transport and communication inflation rose to 3.73 per cent from 3.36 per cent. RBI’s target holds steady The Reserve Bank of India, which has been mandated to ensure inflation remains at 4 per cent with a margin of 2 per cent on either side, has cut the key interest rate by 50 basis points in two tranches (February and April) to 6 per cent underpinned by easing inflation. The central bank has projected the CPI inflation for the financial year 2025-26 at 4 per cent, with Q1 at 3.6 per cent, Q2 at 3.9 per cent, Q3 at 3.8 per cent, and Q4 at 4.4 per cent. With inflation trends remaining well within the target range, market expectations for a potential rate cut in the upcoming meeting of RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in June have strengthened.

India’s retail inflation hits a 6-year low as food prices cool

Japan’s inflation is gaining momentum, with January’s consumer price index expected to rise to 4 percent, up from 3.6 percent in December. This positions Japan as the fastest-inflating economy among g-7 nations. A key driver of inflation is food prices, particularly fresh produce.

BOJ under pressure as Japan leads G-7 inflation

India’s economic survey proposed a significant shift in monetary policy: excluding food prices from the inflation measure. According to the Reserve Bank of India’s August bulletin, this move could address persistent issues with high food inflation. But will this simplification overlook the economic strain facing Indian households?

India's inflation debate: To include or exclude food?

We look at how weather patterns are weighing on food inflation fears. An index of major crops wiped out 2024's progress as bad weather stokes worries about harvests from wheat to coffee, reviving concerns about rising food prices.

Bad weather revives concerns about rising food prices

Inflation and a cost of living crisis have grabbed the attention of economists and policy makers since the pandemic. But 2024 seems to have brought some good news for consumers and central bankers. That's because inflation concerns seem to be easing in the u.s., uk, and eurozone.

Inflation eases globally, under central banks' targets

While top cities such as Delhi and Mumbai recorded skyrocketing tomato&nbsp;prices, the city of Hyderabad in the southern Indian state of Telangana is also witnessing a similar price rise. The price of the vegetable, a staple in most Indian homes, has touched Rs 100 per kilogramme.&nbsp;

According to vendors at the&nbsp;Madannapet vegetable market, the price rise is primarily due to a lack of supply in the market.&nbsp;A 23 kg box of tomatoes is being sold anywhere between&nbsp;Rs 1,600 and Rs 2,000 while small-size tomatoes are being sold around Rs 1,200 per box.&nbsp;

In Hyderabad, tomatoes are imported from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. The spread of monsoon rains across the country has made lives difficult for farmers who are unable to harvest the crop.&nbsp;

<h2>Why are the prices so high?</h2>

Multiple reasons have contributed to the price rise but it is the incessant rains that have had the most significant impact on the inflation. The prices have surged from Rs 10-20 per kg to Rs80-100 per kg due to&nbsp;limited supply caused by crop damage from heavy rainfall and extreme heat.

Experts also pointed out that fewer tomatoes were planted this year as the farmers went for cash crops.&nbsp;

“This year, for a variety of reasons, fewer tomatoes were sown than in prior years. As the price of beans surged last year, many farmers switched to growing beans this year. However, lack of rains caused the crops to dry out and wilt. The limited supply of vegetables, particularly tomatoes are due to crop damage caused by heavy rainfall and extreme heat,"&nbsp;Ajay Kedia, a&nbsp;Mumbai-based commodity market expert was quoted as saying by Mint.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tomato-prices-in-india-whats-driving-the-hike-all-you-need-to-know-609755">WATCH |&nbsp;Tomato prices in India: What's driving the hike? All you need to know</a>

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<h2>When will the prices return to normal?</h2>

According to experts, the price of tomatoes always peak&nbsp;during this time of the year due to weather disturbances in many cities. The prices are expected to come back to normal in the next 10-15 days. Past trends also indicate that after a brief upheaval in prices during this season, the market course corrects and the tomato prices come down when the yield is supported by the weather.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tomato-crisis-looms-large-in-california-as-drought-intensifies-506764">Also read |&nbsp;Tomato crisis looms large in California as drought intensifies</a>

Barring tomatoes, the price of other veggies has remained stable. In May, the consumer food price index (CFPI)&nbsp;eased to 2.91 per cent from 3.84 per cent in April.&nbsp;Retail inflation for vegetables witnessed a contraction of 8.18 per cent in May, while inflation for oils and fats also contracted by 16 per cent.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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While top cities such as Delhi and Mumbai recorded skyrocketing tomato prices, the city of Hyderabad in the southern Indian state of Telangana is also witnessing a similar price rise.

While top cities such as Delhi and Mumbai recorded skyrocketing tomato prices, the city of Hyderabad in the southern Indian state of Telangana is also witnessing a similar price rise. The price of the vegetable, a staple in most Indian homes, has touched Rs 100 per kilogramme. According to vendors at the Madannapet vegetable market, the price rise is primarily due to a lack of supply in the market. A 23 kg box of tomatoes is being sold anywhere between Rs 1,600 and Rs 2,000 while small-size tomatoes are being sold around Rs 1,200 per box. In Hyderabad, tomatoes are imported from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. The spread of monsoon rains across the country has made lives difficult for farmers who are unable to harvest the crop. Why are the prices so high? Multiple reasons have contributed to the price rise but it is the incessant rains that have had the most significant impact on the inflation. The prices have surged from Rs 10-20 per kg to Rs80-100 per kg due to limited supply caused by crop damage from heavy rainfall and extreme heat. Experts also pointed out that fewer tomatoes were planted this year as the farmers went for cash crops. “This year, for a variety of reasons, fewer tomatoes were sown than in prior years. As the price of beans surged last year, many farmers switched to growing beans this year. However, lack of rains caused the crops to dry out and wilt. The limited supply of vegetables, particularly tomatoes are due to crop damage caused by heavy rainfall and extreme heat," Ajay Kedia, a Mumbai-based commodity market expert was quoted as saying by Mint. WATCH | Tomato prices in India: What's driving the hike? All you need to know × When will the prices return to normal? According to experts, the price of tomatoes always peak during this time of the year due to weather disturbances in many cities. The prices are expected to come back to normal in the next 10-15 days. Past trends also indicate that after a brief upheaval in prices during this season, the market course corrects and the tomato prices come down when the yield is supported by the weather. Also read | Tomato crisis looms large in California as drought intensifies Barring tomatoes, the price of other veggies has remained stable. In May, the consumer food price index (CFPI) eased to 2.91 per cent from 3.84 per cent in April. Retail inflation for vegetables witnessed a contraction of 8.18 per cent in May, while inflation for oils and fats also contracted by 16 per cent. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Why are tomato prices skyrocketing across India? What happens next?

According to recent study, the cost of British essential foods like cheddar cheese, white bread, and porridge oats has increased dramatically since last year. The highest price increase was for cheddar cheese, which went up by an average of 28.3% across Aldi, Asda, Lidl, Morrisons, Ocado, Sainsbury's, Tesco, and Waitrose. According to Which?, the overall rate of food inflation increased further in March, rising to 17.2%% from 16.5% in February.

Prices of British food staples soar by up to 80%, biggest hike on white breads oats

Food and energy prices have been soaring around the world as Russia’s war in Ukraine, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change-related events weigh on the global economy. Bangladesh, Pakistan and Africa — where the vast majority of the world’s Muslims live, are among the worst hit by price surges and shortages of key supplies.

How rising prices hurt Ramadan celebrations? | Details

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is facing a possible impeachment threat over the "Farmgate" scandal. In the latest update, Ramaphosa delayed a scheduled appearance in parliament to answer questions from lawmakers. Watch this video to know more.

‘Farmgate’ Corruption Scandal: Ramaphosa delays parliament appearance

The cost of living crisis is biting customers across the world. Inflation is on the rise and that means food prices are soaring, price of your daily essentials have spiked while people stress to afford their groceries, companies around the world are piling up profits.

Food prices soar, so do companies' profits; Who is benefitting from food inflation?

The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has been devastating for the global economy with severe impacts on food security as well as the supply chain. With Ukraine amounting for a huge amount of food grain exports in the world, the crisis has resulted in a temporary stoppage of supply, and this has resulted in major food shortages. A report by World Bank confirmed on Monday that a number of developing countries are currently facing crippling food inflation and that has also resulted in price rises in richer countries. The report also stated that the situation can get even worse, and this can result in food bills across the world increasing by almost one per cent of their annual GDP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/height-of-irresponsibility-blinken-slams-russias-actions-around-ukraines-largest-nuclear-power-plant-502731" hreflang="en">US accuses Russia of using Ukraine power plant as 'nuclear shield'</a>

“The share of high-income countries with high inflation has also increased sharply, with about 78.6% experiencing high food price inflation. The most-affected countries are in Africa, North America, Latin America, South Asia, Europe, and central Asia,” the report said according to The Guardian.

There was some respite for the world economy as Russia and Ukraine announced an understanding last week that will allow passage of ships carrying food grains. However, with the world already suffering from the effects of the pandemic, the recovery will take a significant amount of time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-conducts-drone-strike-in-afghanistan-kills-al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-report-502737" hreflang="en">US conducts drone strike in Afghanistan, kills Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri</a>

According to the World Bank data, the worst victim of the food inflation was Lebanon who have been suffering since the explosion in Beirut. The incident resulted in loss of a significant amount of food grains and with the current invasion, the food scarcity has reached a completely new level.

Currently, the general inflation rate of the country remains above 150% amid food and fuel crisis.

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The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has been devastating for the global economy with severe impacts on food security as well as the supply chain. With Ukraine amounting for a huge amount of food grain exports in the world, the crisis has resulted in a temporary stoppage of supply, and this has resulted in major food shortages.

The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has been devastating for the global economy with severe impacts on food security as well as the supply chain. With Ukraine amounting for a huge amount of food grain exports in the world, the crisis has resulted in a temporary stoppage of supply, and this has resulted in major food shortages. A report by World Bank confirmed on Monday that a number of developing countries are currently facing crippling food inflation and that has also resulted in price rises in richer countries. The report also stated that the situation can get even worse, and this can result in food bills across the world increasing by almost one per cent of their annual GDP. Also read | US accuses Russia of using Ukraine power plant as 'nuclear shield' “The share of high-income countries with high inflation has also increased sharply, with about 78.6% experiencing high food price inflation. The most-affected countries are in Africa, North America, Latin America, South Asia, Europe, and central Asia,” the report said according to The Guardian. There was some respite for the world economy as Russia and Ukraine announced an understanding last week that will allow passage of ships carrying food grains. However, with the world already suffering from the effects of the pandemic, the recovery will take a significant amount of time. Also read | US conducts drone strike in Afghanistan, kills Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri According to the World Bank data, the worst victim of the food inflation was Lebanon who have been suffering since the explosion in Beirut. The incident resulted in loss of a significant amount of food grains and with the current invasion, the food scarcity has reached a completely new level. Currently, the general inflation rate of the country remains above 150% amid food and fuel crisis. WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

Developing countries facing major food inflation due to Ukraine crisis, says World Bank

Reports claim drought and heatwave in Europe could reduce crop yield in Europe this year as the war in Ukraine continues to stress food supplies.

The JRC Mars bulletin which monitors crop production in Europe in its latest report said yield forecasts for grain maize, sunflowers and soybeans were "markedly reduced"&nbsp;due to extremely hot and dry conditions in several regions of Europe with summer crops being affected.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last month the JRC Mars bulletin crop monitoring in Europe said yield of&nbsp;soft wheat, durum wheat and winter barley are currently below the five-year average with maize, rapeseed and sunflower also at a low but just above the five-year average.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-power-station-captured-in-ukraine-amid-movement-in-grain-exports-501311">Also Read:&nbsp;Russia claims power station captured in Ukraine amid movement in grain exports</a>

The publication said the reduced yield was due to "drier-than-usual conditions in large parts of Europe" with the Baltic sea region affected by "persistently colder-than-usual weather". The report noted that the sowing of rice was accomplished without major constraints however it was in an area which was nearly seven per cent smaller than last year due to the unavailability of water.

The Mars bulletin said durum wheat has been revised sharply downwards with almost five per cent below EU levels and soft wheat revised downward in 13 of the 25 EU wheat-producing countries mostly in Hungary, Romania, Poland, and France.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine to begin grain shipments from Black Sea Port

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The report comes as Ukraine recently concluded a deal with Russia on the export of wheat and another gain from the Black Sea ports. Ukraine said at least 25 million tonnes of grain worth $10 billion is locked up in Black Sea port ever since President Vladimir Putin announced the "special military operation" against Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ukraine said there was movement in grain transportation since the agreement was inked however a missile attack on the Black Sea port put the deal in doubt as the US criticised the attack.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Reports claim drought and heatwave in Europe could reduce crop yield in Europe this year as the war in Ukraine continues to stress food supplies. The JRC Mars bulletin which monitors crop production in Europe in its latest report said yield forecasts for grain maize, sunflowers and soybeans were "markedly reduced" due to extremely hot and dry conditions in several regions of Europe with summer crops being affected.

Reports claim drought and heatwave in Europe could reduce crop yield in Europe this year as the war in Ukraine continues to stress food supplies. The JRC Mars bulletin which monitors crop production in Europe in its latest report said yield forecasts for grain maize, sunflowers and soybeans were "markedly reduced" due to extremely hot and dry conditions in several regions of Europe with summer crops being affected. Last month the JRC Mars bulletin crop monitoring in Europe said yield of soft wheat, durum wheat and winter barley are currently below the five-year average with maize, rapeseed and sunflower also at a low but just above the five-year average. Also Read: Russia claims power station captured in Ukraine amid movement in grain exports The publication said the reduced yield was due to "drier-than-usual conditions in large parts of Europe" with the Baltic sea region affected by "persistently colder-than-usual weather". The report noted that the sowing of rice was accomplished without major constraints however it was in an area which was nearly seven per cent smaller than last year due to the unavailability of water. The Mars bulletin said durum wheat has been revised sharply downwards with almost five per cent below EU levels and soft wheat revised downward in 13 of the 25 EU wheat-producing countries mostly in Hungary, Romania, Poland, and France. Watch: Ukraine to begin grain shipments from Black Sea Port The report comes as Ukraine recently concluded a deal with Russia on the export of wheat and another gain from the Black Sea ports. Ukraine said at least 25 million tonnes of grain worth $10 billion is locked up in Black Sea port ever since President Vladimir Putin announced the "special military operation" against Ukraine. Ukraine said there was movement in grain transportation since the agreement was inked however a missile attack on the Black Sea port put the deal in doubt as the US criticised the attack. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Crop yield in Europe set to decline due to heatwave and drought as Ukraine war continues

Sri Lanka is in the grip of a massive political and economic crisis which has triggered food inflation in the country. According to the world food programme, nearly 5 million people need food aid.

Food inflation in Sri Lanka reaches record high, 22% of Lankans need food aid

As China struggles to grapple with the virus, President Xi Jinping's "zero Covid" has been disrupting supply chains and along with the war in Ukraine, it has put pressure on the world economy.&nbsp;

Inflation has set new records worldwide and Japan has also suffered. However, Japan has always been stuck with deflationary pressures. In fact, unlike the rest of the world, Japan's&nbsp;central bank has been actively looking for higher inflation.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GravitasTokyoEdition?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GravitasTokyoEdition</a> | Inflation is setting new records globally. Japan is feeling the pinch too, but its record inflation is just 2%. The country's central bank is looking for higher inflation. Why? Due to a long-standing financial policy. <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a> brings you a ground report. <a href="https://t.co/9HBh5OD53t">pic.twitter.com/9HBh5OD53t</a>
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Japan's "record" inflation currently stands at just 2 per cent. Amid backbreaking inflation, most countries would love 2 per cent inflation. In America inflation is at 8.5 per cent, Britain has been reeling under 9 per cent inflation and in India, it is at 7.8 per cent. However, the situation in Japan&nbsp;is quite different.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-former-japanese-pm-shinzo-abe-speaks-to-wion-on-china-taiwan-relations-481891">Also Read:&nbsp;Exclusive | Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe speaks to WION on China-Taiwan relations</a>

The big question is how do most companies respond to inflation? Companies account for raw materials, if it is more expensive, they pin the inflation on the consumer. However, in Japan companies fear public backlash, therefore, instead of raising prices, they cut down costs meaning pay cuts.

Workers in Japan are too docile to protest such decisions since with hikes, pay cuts and extra hours most workers have the same reaction. Inflation in Japan triggers a weird chain reaction which ends with less money in their pocket which means inflation ends with deflation.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Japan's longstanding pursuit of higher inflation

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For decades, Japan has tried to correct this phenomenon. The central banks kept interests low as companies were urged to hike wages but Japan’s inflation remained stagnant and along with it the country's wages.

However, this year Japan’s inflation topped 2 per cent but the forecast is not favourable since fuel and food prices have been driving inflation. The fear is if wages don't rise, Japanese families will find it hard to survive but the central bank hasn't budged with interest rates still at near-zero levels.

Japanese analysts feel forced savings can help the country since during the pandemic years people cut down on spending so the hope is that money is saved up by some&nbsp;estimates Japan’s forced savings could be around $156 billion but Japan’s economic recovery could stall.

An ageing population with tight virus curbs and falling exports&nbsp;is the perfect ingredient&nbsp;for a recession.

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As China struggles to grapple with the virus, President Xi Jinping's "zero Covid" has been disrupting supply chains and along with the war in Ukraine, it has put pressure on the world economy.

As China struggles to grapple with the virus, President Xi Jinping's "zero Covid" has been disrupting supply chains and along with the war in Ukraine, it has put pressure on the world economy. Inflation has set new records worldwide and Japan has also suffered. However, Japan has always been stuck with deflationary pressures. In fact, unlike the rest of the world, Japan's central bank has been actively looking for higher inflation. #GravitasTokyoEdition | Inflation is setting new records globally. Japan is feeling the pinch too, but its record inflation is just 2%. The country's central bank is looking for higher inflation. Why? Due to a long-standing financial policy. @palkisu brings you a ground report. pic.twitter.com/9HBh5OD53t — WION (@WIONews) May 24, 2022 × Japan's "record" inflation currently stands at just 2 per cent. Amid backbreaking inflation, most countries would love 2 per cent inflation. In America inflation is at 8.5 per cent, Britain has been reeling under 9 per cent inflation and in India, it is at 7.8 per cent. However, the situation in Japan is quite different. Also Read: Exclusive | Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe speaks to WION on China-Taiwan relations The big question is how do most companies respond to inflation? Companies account for raw materials, if it is more expensive, they pin the inflation on the consumer. However, in Japan companies fear public backlash, therefore, instead of raising prices, they cut down costs meaning pay cuts. Workers in Japan are too docile to protest such decisions since with hikes, pay cuts and extra hours most workers have the same reaction. Inflation in Japan triggers a weird chain reaction which ends with less money in their pocket which means inflation ends with deflation. Watch: Gravitas: Japan's longstanding pursuit of higher inflation × For decades, Japan has tried to correct this phenomenon. The central banks kept interests low as companies were urged to hike wages but Japan’s inflation remained stagnant and along with it the country's wages. However, this year Japan’s inflation topped 2 per cent but the forecast is not favourable since fuel and food prices have been driving inflation. The fear is if wages don't rise, Japanese families will find it hard to survive but the central bank hasn't budged with interest rates still at near-zero levels. Japanese analysts feel forced savings can help the country since during the pandemic years people cut down on spending so the hope is that money is saved up by some estimates Japan’s forced savings could be around $156 billion but Japan’s economic recovery could stall. An ageing population with tight virus curbs and falling exports is the perfect ingredient for a recession. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Why Japan prefers higher inflation

The prices of other edible oils such as soyoil, sunflower oil and rapeseed oil are expected to rise on the account of Indonesia banning palm oil export and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, experts have said.

This comes at a time when the prices of agricultural commodities prices have already seen a jump after Ukraine, a leading grain and sunflower oil supplier to world markets, stopped exports due to the war, reports The Financial Times.

The move by Indonesia, the world’s biggest exporter of edible oil, is expected to put a further strain on the Asian and African economies, which have been reeling under high fuel and food prices.

The UN Food and Agricultural Organization’s vegetable oil price index has surged 40 per cent this year.

“Indonesia’s decision affects not only palm oil availability, but vegetable oils worldwide,” James Fry, chairman of commodities consultancy LMC International, told Reuters.

Palm oil is used in everything, from cakes and frying fats to cosmetics and cleaning products and accounts for nearly 60 per cent of global vegetable oil shipments.

Indonesia and Malaysia account for 56 per cent and 31 per cent of the global palm oil supply worldwide, respectively.

Apart from that, Palm oil is also used as biodiesel feedstock. Indonesia and Malaysia have made make it mandatory for biodiesel to be mixed with a certain amount of palm oil – 30 per cent and 20 per cent.

“This is happening when the export tonnages of all other major oils are under pressure: soya bean oil due to droughts in South America; rapeseed oil due to disastrous canola crops in Canada; and sunflower oil because of Russia’s war on Ukraine,” Fry was quoted as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/edible-oil-prices-may-rise-further-in-india-due-to-indonesias-palm-oil-export-ban-473118">Edible oil prices may rise further in India due to Indonesia's palm oil export ban</a>

President Widodo had announced to ban exports from April 28 until further notice, in a bid to tackle rising domestic prices.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-looks-to-revive-ailing-palm-oil-sector-417839">Nigeria looks to revive ailing palm oil sector</a>

"I will monitor and evaluate the implementation of this policy so availability of cooking oil in the domestic market becomes abundant and affordable,” Widodo said on Friday.

Watch |&nbsp;Economic fall out of Russia-Ukraine war: Indonesia bans palm oil exports

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(With inputs from agencies)

The prices of other edible oils such as soyoil, sunflower oil and rapeseed oil are expected to rise on the account of Indonesia banning palm oil export and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, experts have said.

The prices of other edible oils such as soyoil, sunflower oil and rapeseed oil are expected to rise on the account of Indonesia banning palm oil export and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, experts have said. This comes at a time when the prices of agricultural commodities prices have already seen a jump after Ukraine, a leading grain and sunflower oil supplier to world markets, stopped exports due to the war, reports The Financial Times. The move by Indonesia, the world’s biggest exporter of edible oil, is expected to put a further strain on the Asian and African economies, which have been reeling under high fuel and food prices. The UN Food and Agricultural Organization’s vegetable oil price index has surged 40 per cent this year. “Indonesia’s decision affects not only palm oil availability, but vegetable oils worldwide,” James Fry, chairman of commodities consultancy LMC International, told Reuters. Palm oil is used in everything, from cakes and frying fats to cosmetics and cleaning products and accounts for nearly 60 per cent of global vegetable oil shipments. Indonesia and Malaysia account for 56 per cent and 31 per cent of the global palm oil supply worldwide, respectively. Apart from that, Palm oil is also used as biodiesel feedstock. Indonesia and Malaysia have made make it mandatory for biodiesel to be mixed with a certain amount of palm oil – 30 per cent and 20 per cent. “This is happening when the export tonnages of all other major oils are under pressure: soya bean oil due to droughts in South America; rapeseed oil due to disastrous canola crops in Canada; and sunflower oil because of Russia’s war on Ukraine,” Fry was quoted as saying. Also read | Edible oil prices may rise further in India due to Indonesia's palm oil export ban President Widodo had announced to ban exports from April 28 until further notice, in a bid to tackle rising domestic prices. Also read | Nigeria looks to revive ailing palm oil sector "I will monitor and evaluate the implementation of this policy so availability of cooking oil in the domestic market becomes abundant and affordable,” Widodo said on Friday. Watch | Economic fall out of Russia-Ukraine war: Indonesia bans palm oil exports (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia’s decision to ban palm oil exports sparks global food inflation concerns: Report

India's inflation surged to a 17-month high of 6.95 per cent in March for the third consecutive month.

The country had recorded the previous highest inflation rate at &nbsp;7.61 per cent in October 2020. Food inflation shot up to 7.68 per cent and retail inflation was at 5.52 per cent.

Inflationary pressure was witnessed in oil&nbsp;and fat&nbsp;amid the Ukraine war with Ukraine being a major exporter of sunflower oil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-wpi-inflation-rose-in-august-over-costlier-manufactured-goods-412956">Also Read:&nbsp;India's WPI inflation rose over costlier manufactured goods</a>

Vegetable prices surged last month with inflation at 11.64 per cent as meat and fish prices rose 9.63 pre cent compared to February.

Reports claim&nbsp;lemon&nbsp;prices have also skyrocketed. In India's capital&nbsp;the price of lemon is reportedly between&nbsp;Rs 300 to Rs 350 per kg with the wholesale price in Gujarat at around Rs 300 per kg.&nbsp;

Prices of lemon have also surged in Hyderabad as reports suggest soaring heat in lemon producing areas in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh has damaged the summer crop. &nbsp;

India has also been witnessing a surge in fuel prices which has reportedly pushed up the transportation cost of vegetables.

(With inputs from Agencies)

India's inflation surged to a 17-month high of 6.95 per cent in March for the third consecutive month. The country had recorded the previous highest inflation rate at 7.

India's inflation surged to a 17-month high of 6.95 per cent in March for the third consecutive month. The country had recorded the previous highest inflation rate at 7.61 per cent in October 2020. Food inflation shot up to 7.68 per cent and retail inflation was at 5.52 per cent. Inflationary pressure was witnessed in oil and fat amid the Ukraine war with Ukraine being a major exporter of sunflower oil. Also Read: India's WPI inflation rose over costlier manufactured goods Vegetable prices surged last month with inflation at 11.64 per cent as meat and fish prices rose 9.63 pre cent compared to February. Reports claim lemon prices have also skyrocketed. In India's capital the price of lemon is reportedly between Rs 300 to Rs 350 per kg with the wholesale price in Gujarat at around Rs 300 per kg. Prices of lemon have also surged in Hyderabad as reports suggest soaring heat in lemon producing areas in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh has damaged the summer crop. India has also been witnessing a surge in fuel prices which has reportedly pushed up the transportation cost of vegetables. (With inputs from Agencies)

India's inflation surges in March; lemon prices skyrocket

The wholesale price-based inflation rose for the second consecutive month in February to 4.17 per cent&nbsp;as food, fuel and power prices spiked.

The WPI inflation was 2.03 per cent in January and 2.26 per cent in February last year.

After witnessing months of softening of prices, the food articles in February saw 1.36 per cent inflation. In January it was (-) 2.80 per cent.

The vegetable price&nbsp;rise was (-) 2.90 per cent in February, against (-) 20.82 per cent in January.

Inflation in pulses was 10.25 per cent in February, while it fruits it was 9.48 per cent, and in fuel and power basket it was 0.58 per cent.

The RBI in its monetary policy last month kept interest rates unchanged for the fourth consecutive meeting and said that the near-term inflation outlook has turned favourable.

Retail inflation, based on the consumer price index, was at 5.03 per cent in February, data released last week showed.

Industrial&nbsp;growth re-entered the negative territory by contracting by 1.6 per cent in January, while retail inflation soared to a three-month high of 5.03 per cent in February on costlier food items.

The National Statistical Office (NSO) in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) had earlier released the Quick Estimates of Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for January 2021 and Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers for February 2021.

As per the data, the contraction in the IIP in January was mainly on account of a decline in output of capital goods, manufacturing and mining sectors.

The output of the manufacturing sector, which accounts for 77.6 per cent of the IIP, contracted by 2 per cent during the month under review, as against a growth of 1.8 per cent during the corresponding month last fiscal.

The worst performance was witnessed in the capital goods sector which showed a contraction of 9.6 per cent during January over a decline of 4.4 per cent during the same month in the previous fiscal.

NSO also revised upwardly the IIP number for December 2020 to 1.56 per cent from the earlier estimate of 1 per cent.

The factory output growth was in the negative territory in November 2020. It had posted an increase during September and October 2020.

The wholesale price-based inflation rose for the second consecutive month in February to 4.17 per cent as food, fuel and power prices spiked. The WPI inflation was 2.

The wholesale price-based inflation rose for the second consecutive month in February to 4.17 per cent as food, fuel and power prices spiked. The WPI inflation was 2.03 per cent in January and 2.26 per cent in February last year. After witnessing months of softening of prices, the food articles in February saw 1.36 per cent inflation. In January it was (-) 2.80 per cent. The vegetable price rise was (-) 2.90 per cent in February, against (-) 20.82 per cent in January. Inflation in pulses was 10.25 per cent in February, while it fruits it was 9.48 per cent, and in fuel and power basket it was 0.58 per cent. The RBI in its monetary policy last month kept interest rates unchanged for the fourth consecutive meeting and said that the near-term inflation outlook has turned favourable. Retail inflation, based on the consumer price index, was at 5.03 per cent in February, data released last week showed. Industrial growth re-entered the negative territory by contracting by 1.6 per cent in January, while retail inflation soared to a three-month high of 5.03 per cent in February on costlier food items. The National Statistical Office (NSO) in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) had earlier released the Quick Estimates of Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for January 2021 and Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers for February 2021. As per the data, the contraction in the IIP in January was mainly on account of a decline in output of capital goods, manufacturing and mining sectors. The output of the manufacturing sector, which accounts for 77.6 per cent of the IIP, contracted by 2 per cent during the month under review, as against a growth of 1.8 per cent during the corresponding month last fiscal. The worst performance was witnessed in the capital goods sector which showed a contraction of 9.6 per cent during January over a decline of 4.4 per cent during the same month in the previous fiscal. NSO also revised upwardly the IIP number for December 2020 to 1.56 per cent from the earlier estimate of 1 per cent. The factory output growth was in the negative territory in November 2020. It had posted an increase during September and October 2020.

Inflation rises over 4% over costlier food, fuel prices

Huge price hike of food grains is one of the serious problems plaguing Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan'. Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has witnessed mass protests for the past few months over the skyrocketing prices in the region.&nbsp;

A protest was organised on January 13 by the Action Committee in Rawalakot against the removal of subsidy on wheat flour. However, the police had arrested local leaders before the planned protest that caused a furore among the residents.

On Wednesday evening, the angry protesters clashed with the police and set ablaze a police station, and destroyed police vehicles in the Azad Pattan area.&nbsp;

Police also resorted to firing and lathi-charge on protesters injuring several of them. A protester said: "The arrest is a conspiracy to weaken our protest. Our movement is very peaceful for the rights of the people. It is against rising inflation and unemployment. It is about the demand for a good education. However, they are carrying atrocities on us. Our friends from the Action Committee, Rawalakot, who were raising voice against a hike in the price of flour, were picked up by the police. What was their fault?"Another protester said: "We were peacefully organising this protest, but the authorities have taken inappropriate action and arrested our friends in Rawalakot. We condemn this act. We want to warm the authorities as if they were not released, there will be a massive protest in the Poonch division".

Locals claim that this is a regular feature in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and in the name of civil rights Pakistan government is abusing them. The people in the occupied region are fed-up due high-handedness of Islamabad and forcing people to face challenges in meeting their daily requirements.&nbsp;

There have been protests for the past several weeks against high inflation, but the local government and Islamabad are paying no heed to their concerns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Huge price hike of food grains is one of the serious problems plaguing Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan'. Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has witnessed mass protests for the past few months over the skyrocketing prices in the region.

Huge price hike of food grains is one of the serious problems plaguing Imran Khan’s ‘Naya Pakistan'. Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has witnessed mass protests for the past few months over the skyrocketing prices in the region. A protest was organised on January 13 by the Action Committee in Rawalakot against the removal of subsidy on wheat flour. However, the police had arrested local leaders before the planned protest that caused a furore among the residents. On Wednesday evening, the angry protesters clashed with the police and set ablaze a police station, and destroyed police vehicles in the Azad Pattan area. Police also resorted to firing and lathi-charge on protesters injuring several of them. A protester said: "The arrest is a conspiracy to weaken our protest. Our movement is very peaceful for the rights of the people. It is against rising inflation and unemployment. It is about the demand for a good education. However, they are carrying atrocities on us. Our friends from the Action Committee, Rawalakot, who were raising voice against a hike in the price of flour, were picked up by the police. What was their fault?"Another protester said: "We were peacefully organising this protest, but the authorities have taken inappropriate action and arrested our friends in Rawalakot. We condemn this act. We want to warm the authorities as if they were not released, there will be a massive protest in the Poonch division". Locals claim that this is a regular feature in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and in the name of civil rights Pakistan government is abusing them. The people in the occupied region are fed-up due high-handedness of Islamabad and forcing people to face challenges in meeting their daily requirements. There have been protests for the past several weeks against high inflation, but the local government and Islamabad are paying no heed to their concerns. (With inputs from agencies)

Food inflation fuels anti-government protests in Pakistan occupied Kashmir

India's annual retail inflation rose to 6.09% in June compared with 5.84% in March, the government data showed on Monday. Food inflation in June increased by 7.87 per cent, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data.

India's annual retail inflation rose to 6.09% in June compared with 5.84% in March, the government data showed on Monday. Food inflation in June increased by 7.87 per cent, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. The inflation figures are based on data collected from limited markets in view of the restrictions imposed on account of coronavirus pandemic, the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation said in a release. The data collected, however, did not meet the adequacy criteria for generating robust estimates of CPIs at the state-level, it added. The retail inflation based on Consumer Prince Index was 3.18 per cent in June 2019. The government had suspended the release of inflation headline numbers for April and May due to inadequate data collection during the two-months long lockdown. (With inputs from agencies)

India's June retail inflation at 6.09 per cent

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