Prices for bakery products and cereals increased by 3.8%, which was a result of rising wheat prices in Kazakhstan and increased logistics costs.
The Ministry of Economy highlighted several factors contributing to the rise in prices: the increase in the cost of feed, fuel, transportation expenses, and the rise in purchase prices for livestock. An important factor was also the growing demand for exports from neighboring countries, which, despite a 3.6% increase in domestic meat production, created additional price pressure. The agency noted that global inflation is also influencing the situation.
The report stated that "global prices for beef and lamb have significantly increased year-on-year due to sustained demand for imports and limited supply for export."
The increase in product prices is linked to rising logistics and storage costs caused by the increase in fuel and electricity prices, as well as higher costs for producers on seeds, fertilizers, and lubricants. Despite a 9.8% increase in domestic vegetable production and an 18.1% increase in fruits and berries, high import volumes continue to exert pressure on prices in the domestic market.
Moreover, global trends such as rising energy prices and logistical constraints have contributed to increased transportation and related costs. In particular, the rise in global prices for vegetable oil has also intensified price pressure within the country.
The Ministry of Economy added that the export duty on sunflower introduced in Russia in December 2025 limited its export, which affected the domestic market and contributed to rising prices. The decrease in sunflower yields in Russia also exacerbated the shortage and increase in oil prices.
Prices for dairy products, cheese, and eggs increased by 5.5% due to seasonal reductions in milk production during the winter period, which was caused by a decrease in available pasture feed. "Additional pressure on prices was exerted by the rise in prices for feed, fuel, and concentrates," the agency explained.
The increase in prices for alcoholic beverages and tobacco products by 8% is related to the annual increase in excise taxes on tobacco and rising production and logistics costs (in the case of alcohol).
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