New forecasts provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) predict that the Kyrgyz Republic will face serious inflation, ranking 14th in the global list of countries where significant food price increases are expected.
Key Data on Kyrgyzstan and the Region
Experts estimate that food inflation in Kyrgyzstan will reach 9.4 percent in 2026, significantly exceeding the global average of 3.2 percent.
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan's neighbor, ranks 9th in the list, with a projected price increase of 12.7 percent. Overall, the Europe and Central Asia region is expected to see an average inflation rate of 4.2 percent, making Kyrgyzstan's figures among the highest in the macro-region.
Global Context
The countries with the most critical price growth are led by:
- Iran — 55.9 percent;
- Argentina — 33.2 percent;
- Turkey — 25.1 percent.
In contrast, the United States is projected to see a price increase of only 2.7 percent, while Canada is expected to see a rise of 4.3 percent. The Asia-Pacific region will show the lowest figures, with an expected average price increase of 1 percent.
Factors and Risks
FAO specialists emphasize that food prices in developing countries are influenced by currency fluctuations, dependence on imports, and issues in logistics chains. A high level of food inflation places additional pressure on household budgets, as food expenses are a primary cost for most people.
Despite an overall slowdown in global inflation compared to previous years, the situation remains uneven for the 160 countries studied. For millions of citizens in countries in the "red zone," including Kyrgyzstan, food vulnerability will persist into 2026.
By the end of 2025, inflation in Kyrgyzstan was 9.4 percent, exceeding the National Bank's target range set at 5-7 percent. Since the beginning of 2026, as of February 16, inflation has already reached 1.8 percent (annualized at 9.6 percent). The measures taken by the government have yet to yield noticeable results.
According to the latest forecasts from international financial organizations, inflation in Kyrgyzstan in 2026 may reach:
