JAMAICA’S inflation rate turned negative for a third month this year in April, with consumer prices declining by 0.4 per cent compared to the previous month, according to data released by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin).

In the first four months of 2025, prices went down in January, February, and April, stayed the same in March, and although this helped with overall inflation, food prices are still a problem.

For April alone though, the overall drop in prices was primarily driven by lower costs for electricity and food, though rising health-care expenses partially offset the decrease.

The most significant contributor to the overall relief on consumers’ pockets was a 1.4 per cent decline in housing and utility costs, particularly electricity, gas, and other fuels, which fell by 4 per cent due to reduced electricity rates. Food prices also decreased by half a percentage point, with staples such as yam, Irish potatoes, cabbage, and sweet peppers becoming more affordable. However, the health-care sector saw a 0.4 per cent increase, driven by higher prescription medication costs.

Despite the monthly dip, annual inflation remained elevated at 5.3 per cent in April 2025, reflecting lingering price pressures. The sharpest year-on-year increases were observed in food and non-alcoholic beverages, which rose by 7.5 per cent; housing and utilities, up by 6.1 per cent; and restaurants and accommodation services, which increased by 6.2 per cent. Within the food category, fruits and nuts saw the most dramatic surge at 17.8 per cent, while vegetables and starchy foods climbed by 14.9 per cent.

The deflationary trend follows months of volatile inflation, with sharp rises in mid-2024 easing into 2025. Since the start of the year, consumer prices are down 1.6 per cent.