Declines in the cost of meat, bread and non-alcoholic beverages helped push inflation lower in February, offering some relief to consumers despite mixed price movements across the economy.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell 0.8 percent in the 12 months ending February 2026, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Food prices were a key driver of the decline, with several staple categories recording notable decreases.

Prices for meat and meat products dropped by 3.6 percent over the year, while bread and cereals declined by 1.3 percent. Non-alcoholic beverages also fell sharply, down 3.3 percent, reflecting lower prices for items such as soft drinks, mineral water and juices.

The broader food index declined by 0.8 percent year-on-year, with five of the nine major supermarket food groups registering decreases. Fruit prices fell by 11.8 percent and vegetables by 3.8 percent, further contributing to lower grocery costs.

Despite the overall decline, some food categories moved in the opposite direction. Fish and seafood prices rose by 12.3 percent over the year, while milk, cheese and eggs increased by 0.5 percent, highlighting uneven trends within the food sector.

On a monthly basis, the CPI edged up 0.2 percent in February following a sharp 1.9 percent drop in January. While the overall food index remained unchanged month-to-month, price movements within categories were mixed, with declines in meat and bread offsetting increases in vegetables and seafood.

The latest figures suggest that falling prices for everyday grocery items continue to play a central role in easing inflationary pressure, even as increases in other areas of the economy keep overall price movements uneven.