Inflation fell slightly in April - but food and energy prices remain high
By Victoria Séveno
The latest figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS) reveal that last month, the prices of goods and services in the Netherlands were 9,6 percent higher than a year earlier.
Inflation in the Netherlands falls slightly
According to the CPI method used by CBS, the Dutch inflation rate was 9,6 percent in April, marking a slight decline from the 9,7 percent recorded in March. While this is an encouraging development, inflation in the Netherlands remains higher than the European average. According to the HICP method used by Eurostat, inflation in the Netherlands was 11,2 percent in April, compared to 7,5 percent in the Eurozone.
Up until April, the rising inflation rate could largely be attributed to rapidly increasing energy and fuel prices. Now, however, CBS notes that inflation in the Netherlands remains high as a result of the rising cost of various foods. Meat products saw the most significant price hikes, becoming 10,5 percent more expensive between April 2021 and last month. Vegetables, dairy products, and bread and grains have also become significantly more expensive over the past year.
Energy and fuel prices remain high, but in a report published online, CBS highlights the recent measures taken by the Dutch government and the stagnating energy and fuel prices as the reason for the slight decrease in the national inflation rate. Gas and electricity were 136 percent more expensive in April 2022 than a year earlier. In March, this figure was 157 percent.
Dutch companies and entrepreneurs increase prices
Recent weeks have seen various companies across a number of different sectors warn of imminent increases in prices. The past few days have seen the Netherlands’ two leading internet providers - KPN and Ziggo - raise their monthly rates.
Dutch dairy farmers are also profiting from higher prices, as milk prices have risen to record highs. At the start of May, NOS reported that farmers were receiving 52,50 euros for 100 kilograms of milk, more than double the rate charged six years ago.
Thumb: Robert Hoetink via Shutterstock.
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Victoria grew up in Amsterdam, before moving to the UK to study English and Related Literature at the University of York and completing her NCTJ course at the Press Association in London. She has a love for all things movies, animals, and food. Read more