The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Lebanon, as reported by the Central Administration of Statistics, showed a 1.97 percent increase in July compared to the previous month and a significant 35.37 percent rise over the past year.

While still substantial, the annual increase represents a decrease from the 41.78 percent recorded in June, indicating a potential easing of inflationary pressures.

This downward trend in the CPI is expected to continue into August, as the exchange rate has begun to stabilize around 89,700 Lebanese pounds (LL) to the dollar. This level has been approached for several months and is a far cry from the official parity of 1,507.5 LL to the dollar that was abandoned at the onset of the country’s economic and financial crisis in 2019.

In July, healthcare costs surged by 17.33 percent, the largest increase among the categories tracked by the CPI, outpacing the rise in prices at restaurants and hotels (up 2.39 percent) as well as food and housing expenses (up 1.77 percent). The housing category includes rent and utilities, reflecting the broader pressures on living costs.

In contrast, some sectors saw price declines. Telecom prices dropped by 2.87 percent, furniture prices fell by 1.59 percent, and leisure-related prices decreased by 1.38 percent.

Regionally, the CPI rose across all areas, with the Bekaa region experiencing the highest rise at 3.03 percent. Beirut followed with a 2.64 percent increase, while North Lebanon recorded a 2.18 percent rise. Other regions such as Mount Lebanon (up 1.91 percent), South Lebanon (up 0.79 percent), and Nabatieh (up 0.51 percent) also contributed to the overall upward trend.