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Tanzania CPI April 2026: Inflation Rises to 4.0% | TICGL Economic Intelligence
Official Data — NBS Tanzania · Released 8 May 2026

Tanzania Inflation Rises to 4.0% in April 2026

The National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) for April 2026 signals rising inflationary pressure, driven by a sharp surge in transport costs, accelerating food prices, and a spike in fuel and energy. TICGL presents the full data with interactive charts and expert context.

📅 Reference period: April 2026 🏛️ Source: National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) 🇹🇿 Coverage: All 26 Mainland Regions 📊 Base Year: 2020 = 100
Headline Inflation
4.0%
▲ from 3.2% (Mar 2026)
Food Inflation
5.7%
▲ from 5.5% (Mar 2026)
Core Inflation
3.1%
▲ from 2.2% (Mar 2026)
Transport (YoY)
9.2%
▲ Highest category

About the National Consumer Price Index (NCPI)

The NCPI, published by Tanzania's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), is the country's official measure of consumer price inflation. It tracks how the cost of a fixed basket of goods and services changes over time for a representative sample of Tanzanian households.

383
Total goods & services in basket
132
Food & non-alcoholic beverage items
251
Non-food items tracked

📍 Geographic Coverage

Price data is collected from all 26 regional headquarters on the Tanzanian mainland, ensuring nationwide representativeness across both urban and rural areas.

⚖️ Weights & Reference

Weights are derived from the 2017/18 Household Budget Survey, covering urban and rural households. The base price reference period is Jan–Dec 2020; index reference year is 2020.

🗂️ Classification Standard

The NCPI follows the UN COICOP 2018 classification, disseminated across 13 expenditure divisions. Supplementary indices include the Core Index, Energy Index, Services Index, and Goods Index.

📐 Index Formula

Elementary aggregates use the geometric mean of price relatives. Higher-level aggregates use the Lowe Index formula (a type of Laspeyres index), ensuring methodological alignment with international standards.

💡
Why it matters for investors: The NCPI is the primary instrument used by the Bank of Tanzania to calibrate monetary policy. Rising inflation—especially in food and transport—directly affects consumer purchasing power, wage demands, and the operating costs of businesses across all sectors.

Annual Headline Inflation: 4.0% in April 2026

Tanzania's annual Headline Inflation Rate for April 2026 jumped to 4.0 percent, a significant increase from the 3.2 percent recorded in March 2026. The overall NCPI index rose from 119.78 in April 2025 to 124.61 in April 2026, reflecting broad-based price pressures across the economy — with transport being the most acute pressure point.

⚠️
Significant acceleration: The jump from 3.2% to 4.0% in a single month is notable. This 0.8 percentage point increase is largely driven by a 29.3% surge in diesel prices and a 29.6% rise in petrol between March and April 2026 — suggesting fuel cost pass-through into transport fares and general goods.
Chart 1: NCPI Index Value & Annual Inflation Rate — Apr 2025 to Apr 2026
Base year 2020 = 100 | Source: National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Tanzania

Source: NBS Tanzania, May 2026

The chart above illustrates a broadly stable period from April 2025 through mid-2025, followed by a gradual upward trend beginning in late 2025 and accelerating into 2026. The inflation rate, which hovered between 3.2% and 3.5% for most of the year, broke above this band sharply in April 2026.

NCPI by Expenditure Group — Full Breakdown

The table below presents the complete NCPI data for all 13 COICOP expenditure divisions, plus selected supplementary indices. Figures compare April 2025, March 2026, and April 2026 index values, along with 1-month and 12-month percentage changes.

Chart 2: 12-Month Inflation Rate by Expenditure Group — April 2026
Annual percentage change, base 2020 = 100

Source: NBS Tanzania, May 2026

#Expenditure GroupWeight (%)Apr 2025Mar 2026Apr 20261-Month Δ12-Month Δ
1Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages28.2130.62136.88138.12+0.9%+5.7%
2Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco1.9112.14114.41114.74+0.3%+2.3%
3Clothing & Footwear10.8114.51115.99116.35+0.3%+1.6%
4Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas & Other Fuels15.1118.90119.82120.93+0.9%+1.7%
5Furnishings, Household Equipment & Maintenance7.9115.35117.82118.35+0.4%+2.6%
6Health2.5109.31110.35111.03+0.6%+1.6%
7Transport ⚡ Highest inflation14.1119.73124.22130.68+5.2%+9.2%
8Information & Communication5.4106.17107.20107.180.0%+1.0%
9Recreation, Sport & Culture1.6111.13111.65111.93+0.3%+0.7%
10Education Services2.0112.16113.22115.03+1.6%+2.6%
11Restaurants & Accommodation Services6.6117.08119.07119.13+0.1%+1.8%
12Insurance & Financial Services2.1102.46102.57102.590.0%+0.1%
13Personal Care, Social Protection & Misc.2.1118.05121.88122.15+0.2%+3.5%
TOTAL – ALL ITEMS INDEX100.0119.78123.04124.61+1.3%+4.0%

Supplementary Index Aggregations

Supplementary IndexWeight (%)Apr 2025Mar 2026Apr 20261-Month Δ12-Month Δ
Core Index73.9115.66117.96119.29+1.1%+3.1%
Non-Core Index26.1131.47137.45139.73+1.7%+6.3%
Energy, Fuel & Utilities Index ⚡5.7134.05134.36141.15+5.1%+5.3%
Services Index37.2112.54114.99117.07+1.8%+4.0%
Goods Index62.8124.07127.80129.09+1.0%+4.0%
Education Services & Products Index4.1114.37115.22116.02+0.7%+1.4%
All Items Less Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages71.8115.53117.60119.31+1.5%+3.3%

Source: NBS Tanzania — NCPI Press Release, 8 May 2026

Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages Inflation: 5.7%

Food inflation rose to 5.7% year-on-year in April 2026, up from 5.5% in March 2026. With a basket weight of 28.2%, food is the single largest expenditure category and a critical driver of headline inflation. The 1-month increase of 0.9% suggests continued upward momentum. Non-food inflation (all items excluding food & non-alcoholic beverages) rose sharply to 3.3% from 2.1% in March, reflecting the pass-through of fuel costs into the broader economy.

Chart 3: Food, Non-Food & Headline Inflation — Monthly Trend (Apr 2025 – Apr 2026)
Reconstructed from available NBS data points | Annual % change

Source: NBS Tanzania, May 2026. Note: intermediate months interpolated from available data.

Key Food Items Driving Monthly Price Increases (Mar→Apr 2026)

Cocoyams+9.0%
Fruits+6.7%
Cooking Bananas+5.3%
Dry Cassava+4.1%
Pasta Products+1.9%
Sorghum Grains+1.8%
Dried Lentils+1.8%
Vegetables+1.8%
Dried Fish+1.7%
Oils & Fats+1.7%
Bread & Bakery+1.5%
Wheat Grains+1.2%
Wheat Flour+1.2%
Dried Sardines+2.0%
Sweet Potatoes+2.6%
Sugar+2.1%
Dried Beans+1.0%
Poultry+0.9%

Core Inflation: 3.1% — A Significant Jump

The Core Index — which excludes volatile unprocessed food, energy, and utilities (with the exception of maize flour) — rose to 3.1% in April 2026, up markedly from 2.2% in March 2026. Covering 297 items representing 73.9% of the total NCPI weight, core inflation is widely regarded as a better indicator of underlying structural price trends.

The acceleration in core inflation is particularly significant from a policy standpoint: it signals that inflationary pressure is no longer confined to volatile categories like food and fuel, but is becoming more entrenched across the broader economy. This is the metric the Bank of Tanzania watches most closely.

Chart 4: Core vs Non-Core vs Headline Inflation — April 2026
12-month percentage change | 2020 = 100

Source: NBS Tanzania, May 2026

🏦
Monetary policy signal: With core inflation rising from 2.2% to 3.1% in one month, the Bank of Tanzania may face growing pressure to tighten monetary conditions. Investors and businesses should monitor the next Monetary Policy Committee statement for guidance on the interest rate outlook.

Monthly Change: March to April 2026

The overall NCPI increased by 1.3% between March and April 2026 (from 123.04 to 124.61). This monthly jump — larger than any single-month movement in the preceding 12 months — is primarily attributable to the dramatic fuel price increases. The non-food sectors most affected are listed below.

Chart 5: Key Non-Food Price Increases — March to April 2026 (Monthly % Change)
Selected items from NBS NCPI release

Source: NBS Tanzania, May 2026

Non-Food Items Driving Monthly Price Increases (Mar→Apr 2026)

Petrol+29.6%
Diesel+29.3%
Bodaboda Fare+14.6%
Kerosene+13.4%
Taxi Fares+7.8%
Bus Fares+3.9%
Cement+3.1%
Charcoal+3.1%
Garments (Men)+0.9%
Clothing Materials+0.7%
Household Utensils+0.7%
Detergents+1.3%

📅 Upcoming NCPI Release Schedule

NCPI Reference MonthScheduled Release Date
May 20268 June 2026
June 20268 July 2026
July 202610 August 2026
Tanzania CPI March 2026: Inflation Holds at 3.2% | TICGL Economic Intelligence

About the National Consumer Price Index (NCPI)

The NCPI is Tanzania's official measure of consumer price changes, compiled by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and released monthly.

🛒 Basket Composition

383 goods and services in total — comprising 132 food and non-alcoholic beverage items and 251 non-food items. Prices are collected from all 26 regional headquarters on the Tanzanian mainland.

⚖️ Weights & Reference Period

Weights are derived from the 2017/18 Household Budget Survey, covering both urban and rural households across all 26 mainland regions. The base price reference period is January–December 2020 (index = 100).

🗂️ Classification

The NCPI follows the UN COICOP 2018 framework, disseminated across 13 divisions. Supplementary indices include: Core, Non-Core, Energy/Fuel/Utilities, Services, Goods, Education, and All Items Less Food.

📐 Compilation Method

Elementary aggregates use the geometric mean of price relatives. Higher-level aggregates use the Lowe Index formula (a type of Laspeyres index), providing a consistent and internationally comparable measure.

Annual Headline Inflation: March 2026 at 3.2%

The headline rate remained unchanged from February 2026, indicating stable overall price conditions. The overall NCPI climbed from 119.27 in March 2025 to 123.04 in March 2026.

Key Finding: Tanzania's headline inflation rate has remained remarkably stable, fluctuating within a narrow band of 3.2% to 3.6% over the 12 months from March 2025 to March 2026. This stability reflects disciplined monetary conditions even as food prices remain elevated.
NCPI Index Value & Annual Inflation Rate — Mar 2025 to Mar 2026

12-Month Inflation by Category (%)

Annual percentage change, March 2026 vs March 2025

Monthly Change by Category (%)

February 2026 to March 2026

NCPI by Division — Full Table (2020 = 100)

Detailed index values and inflation rates for all 13 COICOP divisions and supplementary indices as of March 2026.

#Division / CategoryWeight (%)Mar 2025Feb 2026Mar 20261-Month %12-Month %Weight Share

Source: National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Tanzania — NCPI Press Release, 8 April 2026.

Supplementary Price Indices

The NBS also publishes several supplementary aggregations that provide deeper insight into price dynamics across different segments of the economy.

Core vs Non-Core Inflation

12-month rate, March 2026

Goods vs Services Inflation

12-month rate, March 2026

Supplementary Indices — Full Detail
IndexWeight (%)Mar 2025Feb 2026Mar 20261-Month %12-Month %
Core Inflation (2.2%) excludes unprocessed food, energy, and utilities (except maize flour) — covering 297 items representing 73.9% of the basket. Its slight uptick from 2.1% in February signals modest underlying price pressure. Meanwhile, Non-Core Inflation (5.6%) — driven largely by food and energy — continues to be the dominant force behind overall price increases.

Monthly Price Drivers: Feb → Mar 2026

The NCPI rose from 122.01 to 123.04 (+0.84%) between February and March 2026. The increase was driven by both food and non-food items.

🌾 Food Items — Price Increases
    🏠 Non-Food Items — Price Increases
      Top Food Price Movers — Monthly Change (%)

      Upcoming NCPI Release Schedule

      The NBS publishes monthly CPI data. Analysts and investors can plan around the following confirmed release dates.

      April 2026

      8 May 2026

      Scheduled release date for April 2026 NCPI data

      May 2026

      8 June 2026

      Scheduled release date for May 2026 NCPI data

      June 2026

      8 July 2026

      Scheduled release date for June 2026 NCPI data

      Primary Source: National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Tanzania — www.nbs.go.tz  ·  Ref: AC 334/376/01/377  ·  Published 8 April 2026
      Published by: TICGL – Tanzania Investment and Consultant Group Ltd

      Category Performance Deep-Dive

      A closer look at each of the 13 COICOP divisions — how each category has moved over the past month and year, with weight significance and trend signals.

      High Inflation (>3.5%) Moderate Inflation (1.5–3.5%) Low Inflation (<1.5%)

      Inflation Trend Analysis — 13-Month Review

      Breaking down the evolution of Tanzania's price environment from March 2025 to March 2026 across the three key inflation measures: Headline, Core, and Food.

      Headline vs Core vs Food Inflation — Monthly Trend (%)

      Inflation Rate Distribution

      How frequently each inflation band occurred (Mar 2025–Mar 2026)

      Monthly Index Movement

      Month-on-month NCPI change (absolute points)

      Phase 1 — Stability (Mar–Oct 2025): The NCPI hovered between 119.27 and 120.18 for 8 consecutive months — an unusually tight range reflecting subdued demand-side pressures, stable exchange rates, and contained import costs. Headline inflation drifted between 3.2% and 3.5%.
      Phase 2 — Acceleration (Nov 2025–Mar 2026): The index shifted upward from 120.01 to 123.04 — a gain of 3.03 index points in just 5 months. Food and energy prices, particularly cassava, potatoes, diesel, and charcoal, became the dominant drivers of this acceleration.

      Energy, Fuel & Utilities — Price Pressure Analysis

      Energy prices exerted significant upward pressure in March 2026, with several fuel types posting sharp monthly gains. This matters greatly for transport costs, manufacturing, and household welfare.

      Energy & Fuel Index: +2.1% Monthly | +2.1% Annually

      The Energy, Fuel and Utilities Index rose sharply from 131.61 in February to 134.36 in March 2026 — a monthly jump of 2.1 points. On an annual basis, it also recorded 2.1% growth from 131.58 in March 2025.

      Energy Index Mar 2026
      134.36
      Base 2020 = 100
      Monthly Change
      +2.1%
      Feb → Mar 2026
      Annual Change
      +2.1%
      Mar 2025 → Mar 2026
      Index Weight
      5.7%
      Share of total NCPI

      Monthly Price Change — Key Energy & Fuel Items

      Percentage change, February to March 2026

      Energy Index Trend — Mar 2025 to Mar 2026

      Index value (2020 = 100), estimated monthly path

      Diesel (+4.7%) and charcoal (+4.1%) were the largest energy price movers in March 2026. Diesel prices directly affect freight costs, public transport fares, and agricultural input delivery — meaning the impact radiates across virtually all sectors. Charcoal's increase hits lower-income urban households hardest, as it remains the dominant cooking fuel for millions of Tanzanians.

      Food & Nutrition Security — Price Signals

      At 5.5% annual inflation, food prices remain the primary driver of household cost-of-living pressure in Tanzania. Here we examine which staples are under pressure and what this means for food security.

      Staple Food Price Changes — Monthly (%)

      Core staple grains and roots, Feb → Mar 2026

      Protein Sources — Monthly Price Change (%)

      Meat, fish, dairy, and legumes, Feb → Mar 2026

      Food Inflation by Sub-Category — Severity Matrix
      Food Sub-CategoryKey Items RisingMonthly Change RangeSeverityHousehold Impact
      Roots & TubersFresh cassava, Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes+4.5% to +8.2%🔴 HighCritical — key calorie sources for rural & urban poor
      Fish & SeafoodDried sardines, fresh fish+2.4% to +4.3%🟠 ElevatedHigh — protein affordability under pressure
      Fresh ProduceFruits, vegetables+3.8%🟠 ElevatedModerate-high — seasonal variability expected
      Cereals & GrainsRice, sorghum, maize, finger millet+1.3% to +2.6%🟡 ModerateModerate — basis of most Tanzanian meals
      Flours & Processed GrainsCassava flour, sorghum flour, maize flour+1.0% to +2.5%🟡 ModerateModerate — processed forms lag raw grain prices
      LegumesDried beans, lentils, peas+0.3% to +1.9%🟢 Low-ModerateLow — important affordable protein alternative
      Bread & BakeryBread, bakery products+1.3%🟢 Low-ModerateLow — urban consumption staple
      DairyRaw milk of cattle+0.6%🟢 LowLow — relatively stable price environment

      Investment & Business Implications

      What does Tanzania's March 2026 inflation data mean for businesses, investors, and policy analysts? TICGL breaks down the key signals by sector.

      ✅ Stable Signal
      🏦

      Monetary & Macro Stability

      Headline inflation at 3.2% — unchanged for two consecutive months — signals that the Bank of Tanzania's monetary stance is broadly effective. The narrow 3.2%–3.6% range over 13 months indicates a well-anchored inflation environment, reducing the probability of emergency rate hikes and providing a stable backdrop for long-term investment planning.

      ⚠️ Monitor Closely
      🌾

      Agri-Food Sector

      Food inflation at 5.5% and rising prices for cassava (+8.2%), potatoes (+5.1%), and sardines (+4.3%) point to supply-side constraints. Investors in food processing, cold chain logistics, and agricultural inputs should expect continued cost pressure on raw materials. Margins may narrow unless hedging strategies or local sourcing arrangements are in place.

      ⚠️ Risk Flag

      Transport & Logistics

      Transport inflation stands at 4.2% year-on-year with diesel surging +4.7% in March alone. Companies relying on road freight, last-mile delivery, or fuel-intensive operations face direct margin compression. Fuel cost clauses in contracts and fuel efficiency investments become more critical in this environment.

      💡 Opportunity
      🏘️

      Real Estate & Housing

      Housing, water, electricity and gas inflation at just 1.6% annually is among the lowest of all categories. Combined with core inflation at 2.2%, this suggests the real cost of property holding remains relatively stable — creating a potentially favourable window for real estate acquisition and development finance.

      👁️ Watch
      📡

      ICT & Digital Economy

      Information and communication recorded just 1.0% annual inflation and 0.0% monthly change — the most price-stable sector in the entire NCPI basket. This reflects competitive telecoms markets and declining hardware costs. For digital-first businesses operating in Tanzania, input cost inflation is minimal.

      💡 Opportunity
      🍽️

      Food Service & Hospitality

      Restaurants and accommodation services posted 2.1% annual inflation and a modest +0.4% monthly rise. While food input costs are rising, the relatively contained service-side inflation suggests businesses have not yet passed through full cost increases to consumers — creating a potential price adjustment window for operators.

      ✅ Positive
      💳

      Financial Services

      Insurance and financial services posted just 0.3% annual inflation — the lowest of any NCPI division. This ultra-stable pricing environment, combined with moderate headline inflation, suggests real returns on financial instruments remain positive and the sector is not under inflationary distortion.

      👁️ Watch
      👗

      Retail & Consumer Goods

      Clothing and footwear at 1.3% annual inflation, furnishings at 2.3%, and personal care at 3.3% — the goods sector overall at 3.6% — indicate moderate retail price pressure. Importers face currency and freight pass-through risks, while domestic producers benefit from the relatively stable core goods environment.

      📊 Tanzania Inflation Sector Scorecard — March 2026

      🏆 Most Price-Stable Sector Information & Communication — 1.0% (annual)
      📈 Highest Inflation Sector Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages — 5.5% (annual)
      ⚡ Sharpest Monthly Mover Non-Core Index — +2.3% (Feb→Mar)
      🔒 Most Stable Monthly Information & Communication — 0.0%
      ⚖️ Core Inflation Trend 2.2% — Slightly Rising (+0.1pp vs Feb)
      🧮 Goods vs Services Gap Goods 3.6% vs Services 2.4% — 1.2pp spread
      🌍 Headline Inflation Verdict 3.2% — Stable, Low by Regional Standards
      TICGL Assessment: Tanzania's March 2026 inflation profile reflects a broadly manageable price environment with localised stress in food and energy. The 13-month stability of headline inflation between 3.2%–3.6% is a positive signal for the investment climate. However, the sustained 5.5% food inflation and sharp monthly moves in cassava (+8.2%), diesel (+4.7%), and charcoal (+4.1%) warrant monitoring — particularly for businesses and households most exposed to these categories. Core inflation ticking up to 2.2% from 2.1% deserves attention in coming months.

      Frequently Asked Questions — Tanzania CPI March 2026

      Key questions from analysts, investors, and policy researchers about Tanzania's inflation data.

      What does 3.2% headline inflation mean for Tanzania in regional context? +
      Tanzania's 3.2% headline inflation rate is considered moderate and relatively low by Sub-Saharan African standards. Many regional peers — including Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe — have experienced significantly higher inflation in recent years driven by currency depreciation, fuel cost pass-through, and post-COVID supply disruptions. Tanzania's relatively contained inflation reflects a combination of managed exchange rate policy, subdued domestic demand growth, and the structure of the NCPI basket, which assigns a relatively modest weight (28.2%) to food compared to some other African CPI baskets. For foreign investors, 3.2% headline inflation — held stable for two consecutive months — is a positive signal for the predictability of the operating environment.
      Why is food inflation so much higher than the headline rate? +
      Food and non-alcoholic beverages inflation at 5.5% is 2.3 percentage points above the headline rate of 3.2%. This divergence reflects several forces: (1) Seasonal supply disruptions affecting roots and tubers such as cassava (+8.2%) and Irish potatoes (+5.1%); (2) Climate-related variability affecting both yield and transport costs for perishables like fruits and vegetables (+3.8%); (3) Higher fuel costs (diesel +4.7%) increasing the cost of transporting food from production areas to urban markets; (4) Fish supply constraints leading to dried sardines rising 4.3% in a single month. Because food represents a larger share of spending for lower-income households than the NCPI weight of 28.2% suggests, the effective experienced inflation for many Tanzanian households — particularly the poor — is likely closer to the food inflation rate than the headline figure.
      What is the difference between Core and Non-Core inflation? +
      Core inflation (2.2%) excludes items with volatile prices — specifically unprocessed food, energy, and utilities (with the exception of maize flour). It covers 297 items representing 73.9% of the total NCPI weight. Core inflation is the measure that central banks and policymakers typically focus on because it strips out temporary supply-side shocks and provides a clearer picture of underlying demand-driven price trends. Non-Core inflation (5.6%) includes precisely those volatile categories — food and energy — and therefore tends to move more sharply from month to month. The 3.4 percentage point gap between Non-Core (5.6%) and Core (2.2%) in March 2026 tells us that virtually all of Tanzania's inflation pressure is coming from supply-side food and energy shocks rather than from broad-based demand overheating. This is an important distinction for monetary policy: demand-driven inflation requires interest rate increases to cool; supply-side inflation is better addressed through supply chain, agricultural, and energy policy interventions.
      How should businesses adjust their pricing strategies given these inflation figures? +
      Businesses should differentiate their response based on their sector's inflation exposure. (1) Food sector businesses face genuine raw material cost increases and should review their hedging and local sourcing arrangements — delay in adjusting sale prices may compress margins significantly, particularly with cassava, potato, and fish inputs. (2) Transport-dependent businesses must account for the 4.7% monthly diesel increase in their cost models immediately. (3) Businesses in the ICT, financial services, and recreation sectors are in a benign environment with low inflation exposure — competitive pricing strategies can be maintained without significant cost pressure. (4) General consumer-facing businesses should note that real purchasing power for Tanzanian households is being eroded by food prices — this may affect discretionary spending. Overall, businesses with supply chains most exposed to food staples and fuel should act swiftly, while those in stable-inflation sectors have more flexibility.
      When will the next Tanzania CPI data be released? +
      The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of Tanzania releases NCPI data monthly on the 8th of the following month (or the nearest working day). The confirmed upcoming release schedule is: April 2026 data on 8 May 2026; May 2026 data on 8 June 2026; June 2026 data on 8 July 2026. Data is published on the NBS website at www.nbs.go.tz and TICGL provides in-depth analysis of each release on its economic intelligence platform at ticgl.com. Sign up to the TICGL Researcher Program to receive alerts when new releases are analysed.
      What is the NCPI base year and why does it matter? +
      The NCPI uses 2020 as its reference year (index = 100). This means that the March 2026 index value of 123.04 indicates that the cost of the representative basket of goods and services has increased by approximately 23% since the average price level of 2020. The choice of base year matters because it anchors all comparisons. The weights used in the NCPI are derived from the 2017/18 Household Budget Survey — this is worth noting because consumer spending patterns may have shifted since then. A rebasing exercise (updating both the weights and the reference year) would provide a more accurate reflection of current Tanzanian household consumption patterns. The NBS is aware of this and periodically conducts such exercises. Users of the NCPI should bear in mind that the basket composition and weights reflect a 2017/18 consumption pattern, which may underweight certain modern expenditure categories such as mobile data, digital services, or changed food preferences.
      Inflation Trend in Tanzania March 2026 | TICGL Economic Analysis
      TICGL Economic Analysis  ·  March 2026

      Inflation Trend in Tanzania
      March 2026 — Full Report

      A detailed breakdown of Tanzania's inflation dynamics, Consumer Price Index movements, exchange rate stability, and monetary policy settings — covering January 2025 through March 2026.

      📅 Published: March 16, 2026 📊 Source: Bank of Tanzania & NBS 🏦 TICGL Research Unit 🕐 ~10 min read
      3.2%
      Headline Inflation
      ▼ Feb 2026
      2.1%
      Core Inflation
      ▼ from 2.7% (Jan 2025)
      5.7%
      Food Inflation
      ▲ Highest category
      122.01
      CPI Index (Feb 2026)
      ▲ from 118.28 (Feb 2025)
      2,555
      TZS/USD (Mar 2026)
      ▲ Mild depreciation
      5.75%
      Central Bank Rate
      – Stable (BoT)

      Executive Summary

      Tanzania's macroeconomic environment in early 2026 reflects controlled price growth and relative currency stability. Headline inflation eased to 3.2% in February 2026 — the lowest since July 2025 — comfortably within the Bank of Tanzania's (BoT) 3–5% policy target. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) climbed modestly from 118.28 (February 2025) to 122.01 (February 2026), indicating manageable cost-of-living pressures. The Tanzania Shilling depreciated by only ~0.97–1.75% annually, supported by USD 6.3 billion in foreign reserves and robust export earnings. Food inflation, however, remains the key pressure point at 5.7%, requiring continued vigilance. The BoT's Central Bank Rate (CBR) is held at 5.75%, anchoring banking liquidity and investment conditions.

      Headline Inflation Trend (2025–2026)

      Inflation measures the increase in prices of goods and services, directly affecting the purchasing power of the Tanzania Shilling (TZS). Tanzania's headline inflation exhibited a modest oscillation throughout 2025 before declining to a relative low by February 2026.

      The country sustained inflation within the national target range of 3–5% for the entire period reviewed. The decline from 3.6% in December 2025 to 3.3% in January 2026 signalled improved price stability, with further easing to 3.2% in February 2026. This trajectory reflects the effectiveness of BoT's monetary tools and moderating food price pressures.

      Headline Inflation Rate — Monthly Trend (%)
      Tanzania, January 2025 – February 2026  |  Source: NBS / Bank of Tanzania
      Table 1.1 — Headline Inflation Rate (%), Tanzania 2025–2026
      PeriodInflation Rate (%)Monthly ChangePolicy StatusNotes
      January 20253.1%Within TargetStable start to the year
      December 20253.6%▲ +0.5ppWithin TargetPeak — seasonal food price surge
      January 20263.3%▼ –0.3ppWithin TargetDecline following Dec peak
      February 2026 ★3.2%▼ –0.1ppWithin TargetLowest since July 2025

      Policy Target Met

      Inflation stayed within the BoT's 3–5% target throughout the entire reviewed period, demonstrating effective monetary governance.

      📉

      Downward Trajectory

      Inflation declined from the December 2025 peak of 3.6% to 3.2% in February 2026 — a positive signal for purchasing power protection.

      ⚠️

      Seasonal Risks

      The December 2025 spike to 3.6% highlights exposure to seasonal food price surges, requiring proactive supply-side management.

      Consumer Price Index (CPI) Trend

      The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the cost of a standardised basket of goods and services purchased by Tanzanian households. With a base year of 2020 = 100, the CPI provides a consistent benchmark for tracking cost-of-living changes over time.

      Tanzania's national CPI increased from 118.28 in February 2025 to 122.01 in February 2026 — a 3.15-point (2.7%) increase over 12 months. This moderate growth reflects a relatively stable price environment in the economy, consistent with the low single-digit inflation rates observed during this period.

      National CPI Index (Base 2020 = 100)
      Feb 2025 – Feb 2026  |  NBS Tanzania
      CPI Growth vs. Headline Inflation
      Overlay comparison  |  2025–2026
      Table 2.1 — National Consumer Price Index (Base 2020 = 100), Tanzania
      PeriodCPI IndexYear-on-Year ChangeInterpretation
      February 2025118.28Baseline for comparison
      January 2026121.41▲ +3.13 ptsModerate cost-of-living increase
      February 2026 ★122.01▲ +3.73 pts (+3.15%)Stable growth, purchasing power preserved
      Stable CPI Growth Supports the Tanzania Shilling

      The narrow, predictable movement of Tanzania's CPI (only +3.15% over 12 months) indicates controlled purchasing power erosion, reinforcing confidence in the Tanzania Shilling's domestic value.

      Composition of Inflation — January 2026

      Inflation is not a monolithic measure — it is shaped by price changes across multiple household spending categories. Understanding the sectoral composition of inflation allows policymakers, investors, and households to identify which sectors are driving cost pressures and which remain contained.

      In January 2026, food and non-alcoholic beverages exerted the largest inflationary force at 5.7%, reflecting the dominant share of food in household expenditure for most Tanzanian families. Transport came in second at 4.2%, influenced by fuel costs and logistics. Clothing, health, and restaurant categories remained well-contained below 2%.

      Inflation by Category (January 2026)
      Horizontal bar chart  |  NBS Tanzania
      Category Share — Inflation Distribution
      Relative contribution  |  January 2026
      Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages
      5.7%
      Transport
      4.2%
      Housing, Water, Electricity & Gas
      2.3%
      Clothing & Footwear
      1.2%
      Health
      1.1%
      Restaurants & Accommodation
      1.1%
      Table 3.1 — Inflation by Major Category (%), Tanzania — January 2026
      CategoryInflation Rate (%)StatusKey Driver
      Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages5.7%Above TargetSeasonal supply constraints, staple food prices
      Transport4.2%ElevatedFuel costs, logistics chain pressures
      Housing, Water, Electricity & Gas2.3%ModerateUtility tariffs, urban housing demand
      Clothing & Footwear1.2%ContainedImport prices, domestic textile production
      Health1.1%ContainedPharmaceutical costs, medical services
      Restaurants & Accommodation1.1%ContainedService sector competition, food input costs
      ⚠️
      Food Inflation Remains the Primary Pressure Point

      At 5.7%, food inflation exceeds the BoT's 5% ceiling for sub-components and disproportionately affects lower-income households in Tanzania, where food spending constitutes 50–60% of total household expenditure.

      Core Inflation & Energy Inflation

      Core inflation strips out volatile food and energy prices to reveal the underlying demand-driven price trend in the economy. It is a critical indicator for central bank policy decisions, as it reflects persistent structural price pressures rather than temporary supply-side shocks.

      In January 2026, core inflation fell to 2.2% from 2.7% in January 2025 — a significant 0.5 percentage point decline indicating reduced underlying price pressures and successful demand management. By February 2026, core inflation eased further to approximately 2.1–2.2%.

      Conversely, energy and utilities inflation surged to 5.2%, driven primarily by rising prices of charcoal and firewood — key energy sources for the majority of Tanzanian households, particularly in rural areas. This presents a targeted structural challenge that cannot be addressed by monetary policy alone.

      Table 4.1 — Key Inflation Indicators Comparison, Tanzania 2025–2026
      IndicatorJan 2025Dec 2025Jan 2026Feb 2026TrendNotes
      Headline Inflation3.1%3.6%3.3%3.2%▼ DecliningLowest since July 2025
      Core Inflation2.7%2.5%2.2%2.1–2.2%▼ DecliningReduced underlying pressures
      Food Inflation6.7%5.7%5.7%▲ ElevatedPeaked in Dec 2025
      Energy & Utilities Inflation5.2%2.8%▼ EasingCharcoal/firewood key drivers
      Inflation Decomposition — Headline vs. Core vs. Food vs. Energy (%)
      Multi-indicator comparison across key periods  |  NBS / BoT Tanzania
      📉

      Core Inflation Under Control

      Core inflation declining from 2.7% to 2.2% shows BoT's interest rate discipline is working — fundamental demand pressures are easing.

      🔥

      Energy Inflation at 5.2%

      Charcoal and firewood price increases drive energy inflation — a structural issue tied to deforestation pressures and limited clean energy access in rural Tanzania.

      🌾

      Food Price Persistence

      Food inflation remains elevated at 5.7% despite easing from 6.7% in December 2025, requiring agricultural supply chain interventions beyond monetary tools.

      🎯

      Policy Divergence Challenge

      The gap between low core inflation (2.2%) and high food/energy inflation (5–6%) presents a targeting challenge: a single interest rate cannot address supply-side sectoral shocks.

      Tanzania Shilling Exchange Rate Stability

      The exchange rate of the Tanzania Shilling (TZS) against major currencies — particularly the US Dollar (USD) — is a critical macroeconomic variable that influences import costs, external debt servicing, investor sentiment, and inflationary dynamics (through imported inflation).

      Data shows the TZS experienced a mild and manageable depreciation trajectory from December 2025 through March 2026. The average rate moved from TZS 2,452.76 per USD in December 2025 to approximately TZS 2,554.67 per USD in March 2026 (up to March 14). On an annual basis, depreciation stands at only 0.97–1.75%, reflecting considerable relative stability given global economic pressures.

      This stability is underpinned by Tanzania's USD 6.3 billion in foreign exchange reserves, consistent export earnings from gold and agriculture, and the BoT's active market interventions.

      TZS/USD Exchange Rate — Monthly Average Trend
      December 2025 – March 2026  |  Source: Bank of Tanzania
      Table 5.1 — TZS/USD Exchange Rate Trend, December 2025 – March 2026
      PeriodAvg Rate (TZS/USD)Monthly Change (%)Annual DepreciationNotes
      December 20252,452.76End-year low; strong close
      January 20262,477.94+1.0%0.97%Seasonal FX demand pressures
      February 2026 (avg)2,581.04+4.2%Slight upward pressure
      March 2026 (up to 14th) ★2,554.67 (avg)
      High: 2,609.85 on 13th
      –0.09% (monthly)0.95–1.75%Stable amid global pressures; reserves buffer absorbing shock
      🛡️

      Reserve Buffer: USD 6.3 Billion

      Tanzania's substantial foreign exchange reserves provide strong insulation against external shocks and seasonal FX demand pressures.

      📊

      Annual Depreciation: ~1%

      At only 0.97–1.75% annual depreciation, the TZS demonstrates remarkable stability relative to many peer African currencies facing 5–15% annual depreciation.

      📈

      February Spike Watch

      The 4.2% monthly move in February 2026 warrants monitoring. Sustained TZS weakness could increase import costs and add to domestic inflation pressures.

      ℹ️
      Low Inflation Supports Exchange Rate Stability

      Tanzania's controlled inflation (3.2%) reduces currency erosion risk. Countries with lower inflation relative to trading partners generally see their currencies appreciate or hold value more effectively — a virtuous cycle the BoT is actively cultivating.

      Monetary Policy & Inflation Control

      The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) is the primary institution responsible for managing inflation and preserving currency stability through its monetary policy framework. The BoT deploys a combination of interest rate tools, open market operations, and liquidity management instruments to keep inflation within the national target range of 3–5%.

      In early 2026, the BoT maintained its Central Bank Rate (CBR) at 5.75% — a deliberate decision to balance inflation control against the need to sustain credit growth and economic activity. The interbank market rate settled at approximately 6.40%, reflecting efficient monetary transmission within Tanzania's banking system.

      Notably, the BoT injected TZS 976.4 billion in reverse repo liquidity support to ensure adequate banking sector liquidity. This action prevented a credit squeeze while keeping the shilling and inflation trajectory anchored within policy bounds — a calibrated dual mandate operation.

      Table 6.1 — Key Monetary Policy Indicators, Bank of Tanzania — Early 2026
      IndicatorValueFunctionImpact on EconomyStatus
      Central Bank Rate (CBR)5.75%Signals monetary policy stance; benchmark for all lending ratesAnchors inflation expectations; limits excess credit creationStable
      Interbank Market Rate~6.40%Rate at which banks lend to each other overnightReflects real-time liquidity conditions in the banking systemNear Target
      Reverse Repo Liquidity SupportTZS 976.4 BillionBoT injects liquidity into the banking system via reverse repurchase agreementsPrevents credit contraction; supports SME and private sector lendingActive
      Government Securities — 10-Year Bond Yield~11.30%Reflects long-term borrowing cost for government; benchmark for private creditLow yields attract domestic investors; fund infrastructure without inflating money supplyModerately Elevated
      Credit Growth (Private Sector)16–20% (target)Rate of new credit extended to businesses and householdsEnables SME expansion, investment; risks inflation if excessiveOn Track
      Monetary Policy Rates Comparison — Tanzania Early 2026
      CBR vs. Interbank Rate vs. 10-Year Bond Yield vs. Headline Inflation  |  Bank of Tanzania
      Liquidity Injection Impact — Reverse Repo Support (TZS Billion)
      BoT reverse repo operations and their role in maintaining banking sector stability
      🏦

      CBR Steady at 5.75%

      The BoT's decision to hold the CBR at 5.75% signals confidence in Tanzania's inflation trajectory while supporting continued economic activity and private sector credit growth.

      💧

      TZS 976.4 Bn Liquidity Injection

      Reverse repo support of nearly TZS 1 trillion ensures commercial banks maintain sufficient lending capacity, preventing the kind of credit squeeze that could stall economic momentum.

      📐

      Transmission Gap: CBR to Interbank

      The ~0.65pp spread between the CBR (5.75%) and the interbank rate (6.40%) indicates normal monetary transmission — though persistent gaps can signal liquidity stress.

      🎯

      Dual Mandate Balance

      The BoT is simultaneously managing price stability (3.2% inflation) and financial stability (credit growth 16–20%) — a complex balancing act underpinned by adequate reserve buffers.

      ℹ️
      Securities Market Connection

      Low inflation and the stable CBR environment have enabled Tanzania's government bond auctions to be oversubscribed by up to 34%, with bids reaching TZS 840 billion in January 2026 — reflecting strong domestic investor confidence and providing low-cost financing for national infrastructure development.

      Relationship Between Shilling Stability & Inflation

      The relationship between inflation and currency value is one of the most fundamental dynamics in macroeconomics. For Tanzania, understanding this interplay is essential for investors, importers, exporters, and policymakers — as movements in either variable directly affect the other through multiple transmission channels.

      When domestic inflation remains low and stable, the Tanzania Shilling retains its domestic purchasing power, reduces imported inflation risk, and supports investor confidence in TZS-denominated assets. Conversely, persistent inflation — particularly in food and energy — erodes household purchasing power, puts downward pressure on the shilling, and can create a self-reinforcing depreciation cycle if unchecked.

      Since Tanzania's inflation remains around 3–4%, the Shilling has maintained moderate stability despite significant global economic pressures — including elevated global commodity prices, USD strength, and supply chain disruptions that have severely destabilised currencies in peer African economies.

      Table 7.1 — Inflation–Currency Transmission Matrix, Tanzania
      Economic FactorMechanismImpact on TZSCurrent Status (2026)
      Low Headline Inflation (3.2%)Preserves real interest rate differential; attracts portfolio investment✅ Supports StabilityActive — inflation within BoT target
      High Food Inflation (5.7%)Increases import food demand; strains FX reserves; reduces rural purchasing power⚠️ Depreciation RiskPersistent pressure — supply-side challenge
      Stable Exchange Rate (~0.97% annual depreciation)Limits pass-through of import prices into domestic CPI; controls imported inflation✅ Inflation AnchorActive — rate stable, reserves buffer strong
      Energy Inflation (5.2%)Raises production costs; increases demand for USD to fund fuel imports⚠️ Modest PressureEasing — fell to 2.8% in Feb 2026
      USD 6.3 Bn FX ReservesBoT can intervene to smooth excessive TZS volatility; signals creditworthiness✅ Strong BufferRobust — covers 4–5 months of imports
      CBR at 5.75%Keeps real rates positive relative to inflation; reduces speculative TZS selling✅ Supports ShillingStable — no change expected near-term
      Inflation Rate vs. TZS/USD Exchange Rate — Parallel Trend
      Demonstrating inverse relationship: lower inflation → stronger Shilling  |  2025–2026
      📉
      Low Inflation
      Supports currency stability & purchasing power
      → TZS Strengthens
      🌾
      High Food Inflation
      Reduces purchasing power of TZS domestically
      → TZS Erodes
      🔒
      Stable Exchange Rate
      Limits imported inflation, anchors domestic prices
      → Controls Inflation
      Energy Inflation
      Raises input costs; increases USD demand for fuel imports
      → Mild TZS Pressure

      Key Indicators of Shilling Stability vs. Inflation (2026)

      This section consolidates all major macroeconomic indicators into a unified dashboard view, enabling investors, researchers, and policymakers to assess Tanzania's economic health at a glance. Together, these metrics paint a picture of an economy that is maintaining macroeconomic discipline while navigating residual pressures from food prices, energy costs, and a gradually depreciating currency.

      The interconnection between these indicators is critical: the CBR anchors inflation expectations, stable inflation supports bond auction oversubscription, low yields fund infrastructure without fiscal pressure, and robust GDP growth sustains export capacity — reinforcing Shilling stability in a virtuous cycle that BoT is actively cultivating.

      Table 8.1 — Comprehensive Macroeconomic Dashboard, Tanzania — 2026
      IndicatorValuePeriodBenchmark / TargetAssessment
      Headline Inflation3.2%Feb 2026BoT Target: 3–5%✅ Within Target
      Core Inflation2.1–2.2%Feb 2026Below Headline (healthy)✅ Declining
      Food Inflation5.7%Jan–Feb 2026Below 5% (goal)⚠️ Elevated
      Energy & Utilities Inflation2.8% (Feb) / 5.2% (Jan)Feb 2026Below 5% (goal)⚡ Easing
      CPI Index (Base 2020=100)122.01Feb 2026Moderate growth pace✅ Stable Growth
      TZS/USD Exchange Rate (avg)~TZS 2,554.67Mar 2026 (to 14th)Low annual depreciation✅ Relatively Stable
      Annual TZS Depreciation0.97–1.75%2025–2026<5% (peer benchmark)✅ Well Contained
      Central Bank Rate (CBR)5.75%Early 2026Aligned with inflation target✅ Appropriate
      Interbank Market Rate~6.40%Early 2026Near CBR (efficient transmission)✅ Normal
      FX ReservesUSD 6.3 Billion2026>3 months import cover✅ Adequate Buffer
      10-Year Government Bond Yield~11.30%Jan 2026Below 12% (stable)📊 Moderate
      GDP Growth Forecast6.0–6.3%2026SSA average: ~4%✅ Above Regional Average
      Agriculture Sector Growth+10%2025–2026Key inflation moderator✅ Strong
      FDI TargetUSD 15 Billion2026Stability-driven📈 Under pursuit
      Macroeconomic Health Radar — Tanzania 2026
      Composite stability index across 6 dimensions  |  Score: 0 (poor) → 10 (excellent)
      3.2%
      Headline Inflation
      ✅ Within 3–5% Target
      2.1%
      Core Inflation
      ✅ Below Headline
      5.7%
      Food Inflation
      ⚠️ Key Risk Factor
      122.01
      CPI Index
      📊 Moderate Growth
      2,478
      TZS/USD Rate
      🔒 Stable Trajectory
      5.75%
      Central Bank Rate
      🏦 Steady BoT Stance

      Economic Implications for Growth & Development

      Tanzania's inflation and currency dynamics in early 2026 have far-reaching implications that extend well beyond price levels. The interplay between low inflation, a relatively stable Shilling, government securities market performance, and long-term development goals creates a complex web of opportunity and risk that investors, policymakers, and development practitioners must carefully navigate.

      Low inflation preserves household purchasing power and stimulates consumer spending — a key engine for Tanzania's 6.0–6.3% GDP growth forecast in 2026. Shilling stability reduces FX risk for foreign direct investors, helping Tanzania pursue its USD 15 billion FDI target. Meanwhile, oversubscribed government bond auctions (e.g., 34% oversubscription in January 2026 with TZS 840 billion in bids) provide the government with low-cost domestic financing for Vision 2050 infrastructure priorities — including hydropower projects expected to contribute 1–1.5% to GDP growth.

      However, if food inflation (5.7%) and energy pressures remain unchecked, the risks of purchasing power erosion among lower-income households, increased external borrowing costs, and crowding out of private investment could slow the pace of inclusive growth needed to achieve Tanzania's poverty reduction targets (below 20% by 2030).

      Table 9.1 — Economic Implications Matrix: Inflation & Shilling Stability, Tanzania 2026
      Implication CategoryPositive Impact on GrowthPotential RisksLink to Securities Market
      Price StabilityLow inflation (3.2%) boosts consumer spending, aiding 6.3% GDP forecast; supports agriculture (26% of GDP)Food volatility (5.7%) erodes lower-income households' real income, risking poverty rate increaseStable rates keep bond yields low (~11.3%), attracting domestic investors to fund infrastructure
      Currency ResilienceMild depreciation (0.97%) enhances export competitiveness; supports ~160,000 new jobs created in 2025; FX reserves buffer shocksFurther TZS weakening (toward 2,609) raises external debt servicing costs (70% external debt), diverting from social spendingReduces investor risk premiums; enables oversubscribed auctions (TZS 840Bn bids in Jan 2026), funding budget without monetisation
      Macro BalanceCBR at 5.75% aligns with low inflation; enables credit growth of 16–20%, supporting SME expansion and investmentGlobal shocks (e.g., oil prices, USD strength) could spike energy inflation, slowing Q1 2026 growth from the 6.0% targetCBR benchmarks rates for private loans; deepens the capital market (~15% of GDP), recycling savings into productive projects
      Inclusive GrowthStable macro conditions fund sector reforms in mining and construction; targets poverty reduction below 20% by 2030Inequality persists if food inflation hits hardest; unemployment (13.4%) remains elevated if private investment crowding out occursDomestic funding focus (80% bonds held locally) minimises external refinancing risks, enabling self-reliant long-term development
      GDP Growth Projections vs. Inflation Target
      Tanzania medium-term outlook  |  IMF / BoT projections
      Risk vs. Opportunity Matrix
      Inflation-linked growth factors  |  TICGL Assessment 2026
      🚀
      Medium-Term Growth Potential: 6.5–6.9%

      The interplay of stable prices, a managed Shilling, and active BoT policy fosters a resilient medium-term growth trajectory of 6.5–6.9%. Vigilant policy — particularly BoT's liquidity management tools — will be key to sustaining securities market appeal and preserving Shilling stability as global conditions evolve in 2026.

      Summary & Outlook

      🎯 Key Findings — Tanzania Inflation Trend, March 2026

      • Headline inflation eased to 3.2% in February 2026 — the lowest level since July 2025 — remaining firmly within the Bank of Tanzania's 3–5% policy target, reflecting effective monetary governance and moderating price pressures.
      • Core inflation declined from 2.7% (January 2025) to 2.1–2.2% (February 2026), indicating reduced underlying demand pressures and successful interest rate transmission through the banking system.
      • The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose modestly from 118.28 to 122.01 over 12 months — a 3.15% increase that confirms stable, predictable cost-of-living growth rather than disruptive price volatility.
      • Food inflation (5.7%) remains the single largest inflationary pressure and the primary risk to inclusive growth, disproportionately affecting lower-income households where food spending constitutes the majority of budgets.
      • The Tanzania Shilling depreciated by only 0.97–1.75% annually against the USD — a testament to Tanzania's strong USD 6.3 billion FX reserve buffer, robust export performance, and credible BoT monetary policy.
      • The Central Bank Rate (CBR) held at 5.75% with TZS 976.4 billion in reverse repo liquidity support, maintaining an accommodative credit environment that supports the 16–20% private sector credit growth target.
      • Tanzania's macroeconomic stability is enabling oversubscribed government bond auctions (up to 34% oversubscription), providing low-cost domestic financing for Vision 2050 infrastructure — without fuelling inflation or currency volatility.
      • The medium-term GDP growth potential of 6.5–6.9% positions Tanzania as one of East Africa's strongest-performing economies, though sustained vigilance on food and energy inflation is required to ensure growth is sufficiently inclusive.
      Tanzania Macro Stability Scorecard — Full Indicator Overview
      All key metrics plotted against their respective benchmarks  |  TICGL Research, March 2026
      📡
      Stay Updated

      For the latest Tanzania economic data, real-time indicators, and investment intelligence, visit the Tanzania Business Intelligence Dashboard on TICGL's data platform. Monthly inflation updates are published by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the Bank of Tanzania (BoT).

      Tanzania Inflation Analysis 2025-2026: Regional Leadership & Economic Stability | TICGL

      Tanzania's Inflation Leadership: Comprehensive 2025 Analysis & 2026 Outlook

      Regional Performance, Investment Implications & Economic Projections

      Introduction

      Tanzania demonstrated superior inflation management in 2025, achieving an annual average of 3.3% and outperforming regional peers Kenya (4.1%) and Uganda (3.6%). Despite food inflation surging from 2.1% to 6.4%, the country maintained exceptional stability through declining core inflation (3.4% to 2.2%) and non-food inflation (3.5% to 2.0%).

      3.3% 2025 Average Inflation
      1st Rank in East Africa
      8/12 Months as Best Performer
      3.8% 2026 Forecast

      1. Regional Inflation Performance Comparison (2025)

      MonthTanzania (%)Kenya (%)Uganda (%)Best Performer
      Jan 20253.13.33.6Tanzania
      Feb 20253.23.53.7Tanzania
      Mar 20253.33.63.4Uganda
      Apr 20253.24.13.5Tanzania
      May 20253.23.83.8Tanzania
      Jun 20253.33.83.9Tanzania
      Jul 20253.34.13.8Tanzania
      Aug 20253.44.53.8Tanzania
      Sep 20253.44.64.0Tanzania
      Oct 20253.54.63.4Uganda
      Nov 20253.44.53.1Uganda
      Dec 20253.64.53.1Uganda
      Annual Average3.34.13.6Tanzania
      Key Insight: Tanzania ranked first (lowest inflation) in 8 out of 12 months in 2025 and was never the worst performer in any month. Kenya showed highest volatility, peaking at 4.6% in September-October 2025.

      2. Tanzania's Inflation Components (December 2025)

      CategoryWeight (%)12-Month Change (%)Status
      Food & Non-alcoholic Beverages28.26.7⚠️ High Pressure
      Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco1.93.4Moderate
      Clothing & Footwear10.82.0✅ Well-controlled
      Housing, Water, Utilities15.12.3✅ Stable
      Furnishings & Household7.93.0Moderate
      Health2.51.3✅ Excellent
      Transport14.14.1Elevated
      Information & Communication5.40.5✅ Minimal
      Recreation & Culture1.60.3✅ Minimal
      Education Services2.02.9Moderate
      Restaurants & Accommodation6.60.9✅ Low
      Core Inflation73.92.5✅ Strong Control
      Non-Core Inflation26.16.7⚠️ Volatile
      TOTAL - ALL ITEMS100.03.6Target Range
      Critical Finding: The divergence between Core (2.5%) and Non-Core (6.7%) inflation indicates that price pressures are concentrated in volatile components rather than broad-based, suggesting effective monetary policy and underlying economic stability.

      3. Historical Comparison: 2024 vs 2025 Trends

      Category2024 Average (%)2025 Average (%)Change (pp)Trend
      Headline Inflation3.13.3+0.2↗️ Slight increase
      Food Inflation2.16.4+4.3⚠️ Sharp increase
      Non-Food Inflation3.52.0-1.5✅ Strong decline
      Core Inflation3.42.2-1.2✅ Significant improvement
      Non-Core Inflation2.26.2+4.0⚠️ Major increase
      Key Finding: The 2025 inflation story is about divergence—volatile food and non-core items surged while core and non-food items improved dramatically. This suggests inflation is not demand-driven but rather supply-side and weather-related.

      4. Investment & Competitive Advantages

      FactorTanzaniaKenyaUgandaTanzania Advantage
      2025 Average Inflation3.3%4.1%3.6%✅ Lowest
      Stability (Std Dev)~0.15~0.53~0.29✅ Most stable
      Core Inflation2.2%N/AN/A✅ Well-controlled
      Months as Best Performer8/120/124/12✅ Clear leader
      Purchasing PowerBestWorstMiddle✅ Investment appeal

      Investment Implications

      • Currency Stability: Lower inflation supports Tanzanian Shilling strength
      • Real Returns: Better environment for fixed-income investments
      • Cost Competitiveness: Lower input costs for businesses operating regionally
      • Consumer Confidence: Stable prices support domestic demand growth

      5. 2026 Inflation Projections & Forecast

      CountryBaseline Forecast (%)Range (%)Key Sources
      Tanzania3.83.0 - 4.2BoT, Trading Economics, TICGL
      Kenya4.84.0 - 5.2IMF (5.2%), World Bank (5.0%)
      Uganda3.73.3 - 4.2Trading Economics, Deloitte/EIU

      Tanzania 2026 Quarterly Projections

      QuarterProjected Inflation (%)Expected Trend
      Q1 20262.7Below 2025 average
      Q2 20263.1Gradual increase
      Q3 20262.7Stabilization
      Q4 20262.9Year-end stability
      2026 Average~2.9Below 2025

      Bank of Tanzania Policy Framework

      IndicatorCurrent Status2026 TargetPolicy Stance
      Policy Rate5.75%MaintainedAccommodative
      Inflation Target3-5%3-5%On target
      GDP Growth5.5-6.0%5.5-6.0%Supportive
      Foreign ReservesImprovingStablePositive

      6. Risk Scenarios & Analysis for 2026

      Optimistic Scenario (30% Probability)

      Inflation Range: 3.0 - 3.5% | GDP Impact: 6.0%+ growth

      Key Drivers: Good rainfall patterns, stable food supply, global commodity price moderation, continued strong monetary policy management.

      Baseline Scenario (50% Probability)

      Inflation Range: 3.5 - 4.2% | GDP Impact: 5.5-6.0% growth

      Key Drivers: Normal weather conditions, Bank of Tanzania targets met, regional stability maintained, accommodative monetary policy continues.

      Risk Scenario (20% Probability)

      Inflation Range: 4.5 - 6.0% | GDP Impact: 4.5-5.0% growth

      Key Drivers: Drought conditions, political tensions related to potential elections, global economic shocks, currency depreciation pressures.

      Specific Risk Factors & Impact Assessment

      Risk FactorImpact on InflationProbabilityPotential Addition (pp)
      Drought/Agricultural ShockFood prices surgeMedium+1.0 to +1.5
      Political Instability (Elections)Supply disruptionsLow-Medium+0.5 to +1.0
      Global Oil Price SpikeTransport, energy costsMedium+0.5 to +0.8
      Currency DepreciationImport pricesLow+0.3 to +0.5
      Regional Food ShortagesCross-border food pricesMedium+0.5 to +1.0
      Climate Events (El Niño)Agricultural productionMedium-High+1.0 to +2.0

      7. Key Monitoring Indicators for 2026

      CategoryIndicators to MonitorImpact ChannelPriority
      AgricultureRainfall patterns, crop yields, livestock healthDirect food prices (28.2% of CPI)Critical
      EnergyGlobal oil prices, diesel/petrol local pricingTransport (14.1%), utilities (5.7%)High
      CurrencyTZS/USD exchange rate, foreign reservesImport prices, goods inflationHigh
      RegionalEAC inflation trends, cross-border tradeFood supply, competitive pressuresMedium-High
      PolicyBoT rate decisions, fiscal policyInterest rates, demand-sideMedium
      PoliticalElection preparations, stabilitySupply chains, investor confidenceMedium

      8. Strategic Recommendations

      For Policymakers

      • Enhance Agricultural Resilience: Invest in irrigation infrastructure, storage facilities, and climate-smart agriculture to mitigate food supply shocks.
      • Monitor Food Supply Chains: Implement early warning systems for potential shortages and price spikes.
      • Maintain Policy Credibility: Keep Bank of Tanzania policy rate aligned with 3-5% inflation target band.
      • Build Foreign Exchange Reserves: Strengthen buffers against external shocks and currency pressures.
      • Ensure Political Stability: Facilitate smooth electoral processes to maintain investor confidence.

      For Businesses

      • Leverage Tanzania's Stability: Use competitive inflation advantage in regional operations and pricing strategies.
      • Hedge Food Price Risks: Diversify supply chains and consider forward contracts for agricultural commodities.
      • Plan for 3.5-4.5% Inflation: Budget conservatively with mid-range inflation assumptions.
      • Monitor Q1 2026 Data: First NBS release scheduled for February 9, 2026 will set the year's tone.

      For Investors

      • Best Risk-Adjusted Environment: Tanzania offers superior inflation stability compared to regional peers.
      • Fixed-Income Attractiveness: Real returns supported by low, stable inflation and 5.75% policy rate.
      • Currency Stability: Tanzanian Shilling better positioned than regional currencies.
      • Agricultural Investment Opportunities: Supply gaps present opportunities in food production and processing sectors.

      Conclusion & Key Takeaways

      Tanzania's 2025 Performance Highlights

      • Best-in-class regional inflation management with 3.3% annual average
      • Exceptional core inflation control at 2.2% (down from 3.4% in 2024)
      • Most stable trajectory among all East African peers
      • ⚠️ Food inflation vulnerability remains key risk at 6.4% in 2025

      2026 Outlook Summary

      • Expected Range: 3.0-4.2% (baseline: 3.8%)
      • Regional Leadership: Tanzania likely to maintain best performance if no major shocks
      • Key Risks: Agricultural production, political stability, global commodity prices
      • Supportive Factors: BoT policy credibility, stable currency, improving foreign reserves
      Bottom Line: Tanzania is well-positioned to maintain low and stable inflation in 2026, continuing to outperform regional peers. The combination of strong core inflation control (2.5%) and accommodative monetary policy supporting 5.5-6% GDP growth creates a favorable environment for investment and economic development. However, vigilance on food security and weather patterns remains essential.

      Data Sources: National Bureau of Statistics Tanzania (NBS), Bank of Tanzania (BoT), Trading Economics, International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, Tanzania Investment and Consultant Group Limited (TICGL), Deloitte/Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)

      Next Update: January 2026 NCPI Release - February 9, 2026

      The National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) for August 2025 reveals a stable yet nuanced inflationary landscape in Tanzania, with the annual headline inflation rate rising marginally to 3.4% from 3.3% in July 2025. This slight uptick, driven predominantly by a 7.7% increase in food and non-alcoholic beverage prices, underscores the significant influence of the agricultural sector, which holds a 28.2% weight in the CPI basket. Despite a minor monthly decline in the overall index from 119.85 to 119.77, reflecting seasonal price drops in staples like maize and vegetables, core inflation remained steady at 2.0%, indicating underlying price stability. These figures highlight Tanzania's balanced economic management amid a projected 6% GDP growth, though persistent food price pressures pose challenges for household affordability and rural livelihoods.

      Headline Inflation


      Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages


      Non-Food Items (Excluding Food & Beverages)


      Core Inflation


      Selected Groups (Year-on-Year Changes)


      Monthly Price Movements (July → August 2025)

      The CPI slightly declined from 119.85 in July 2025 to 119.77 in August 2025 (-0.1%), due to lower prices of several items:


      Summary:
      Tanzania’s inflation in August 2025 remained stable and moderate at 3.4%, mainly driven by food prices (7.7% increase). Core inflation (2.0%) shows underlying stability, but seasonal drops in key food and fuel items slightly reduced the monthly index.

      Table 1: Tanzania Overall Inflation Rates

      PeriodCPI Index (2020=100)Annual Inflation Rate (%)Monthly Change (%)
      August 2024115.783.1-
      September 2024115.883.1-
      October 2024115.543.0-
      November 2024116.053.0-
      December 2024116.873.1-
      January 2025117.573.1-
      February 2025118.283.2-
      March 2025119.273.3-
      April 2025119.783.2-
      May 2025119.853.2-
      June 2025120.183.3-
      July 2025119.853.3-0.3
      August 2025119.773.4-0.1

      Table 2: Core Inflation and Other Key Indices (August 2025)

      Index TypeWeight (%)Index Value (2020=100)Annual Inflation Rate (%)
      Core Index73.9115.982.0
      Non-Core Index26.1130.517.3
      Energy, Fuel and Utilities5.7130.722.6
      Services Index37.2112.690.8
      Goods Index62.8123.964.9
      Education Services4.1114.322.8
      All Items Less Food71.82115.561.6

      Key Highlights:

      Overview of Tanzania's Inflation and Economic Implications

      Tanzania's headline inflation rate of 3.4% in August 2025 reflects a stable macroeconomic environment, remaining within the Bank of Tanzania's (BOT) target range of 3-5%. This moderate level, up slightly from 3.3% in July, indicates controlled price pressures overall, supported by prudent monetary policies and improved supply conditions in non-food sectors. However, the data highlights persistent challenges, particularly from food price increases, which could strain household budgets and exacerbate inequality. Drawing from the attached National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) document and recent economic analyses, this inflation profile supports robust GDP growth projections while underscoring the need for targeted interventions in agriculture and food security. Below, I break down the key economic implications.

      Positive Implications for Economic Stability and Growth

      SectorAnnual Inflation Rate (Aug 2025)Economic Implication
      Transport1.4%Low costs support logistics and trade, enhancing export growth (Tanzania's exports up in mining and tourism).
      Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas & Fuels2.1%Stable utility prices aid household budgeting and industrial productivity.
      Education Services3.0%Moderate rise aligns with investments in human capital, crucial for long-term growth.
      Services Index (Overall)0.8%Low pressure fosters service sector expansion, which employs a growing urban workforce.

      Challenges and Risks from Food-Driven Inflation

      Policy Responses and Future Outlook

      BOT's strategy emphasizes inflation targeting while supporting 6%+ growth, with tools like reserve requirements and open market operations to manage liquidity. Fiscal measures, including subsidies for agriculture and infrastructure investments, could mitigate food risks. The IMF's 2025 Article IV consultation notes improving conditions under prudent management, with growth expected to average 6% long-term. East Africa's regional outlook projects easing inflation (from 20.8% in 2024 to 19.1% in 2025), but Tanzania's lower rate positions it favorably.

      In summary, August 2025's inflation data underscores Tanzania's resilient economy, with low overall rates fostering investment and growth amid a projected 6% GDP expansion. However, elevated food inflation poses risks to inclusive development, necessitating enhanced agricultural productivity and social safety nets for sustained stability.

      Tanzania’s inflation trends in May 2025 reflect a stable but nuanced economic environment. Headline inflation at 3.2% is well within regional and national targets, supported by declining non-food and core inflation (2.1%). However, rising food inflation (5.6%), driven by supply-demand imbalances and higher staple food prices, is a growing concern. The decline in energy inflation (6.1%) due to falling charcoal and petroleum prices has helped balance overall inflation. Government interventions, particularly the NFRA’s release of 47,238 tonnes of food and increased stocks to 509,990 tonnes, demonstrate effective supply-side management. In Zanzibar, lower headline inflation (4.2%) reflects improved food supply dynamics. Continued monetary policy vigilance, agricultural investment, and infrastructure improvements will be critical to sustaining inflation stability amidst global and domestic risks.

      1. Headline Inflation

      2. Food Inflation

      3. Non-Food Inflation

      4. Core Inflation

      5. Energy, Fuel, and Utilities

      6. Monthly Inflation Movements

      7. Inflation by Key Categories (Annual, May 2025)

      CategoryAnnual Inflation
      Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages5.6%
      Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas3.4%
      Transport1.7%
      Education3.2%
      Services (Overall)1.0%
      Goods (Overall)4.2%

      8. Government Intervention

      9. Zanzibar-Specific Inflation Trends

      10. Broader Economic Context

      11. Potential Risks and Outlook

      Below is a structured table summarizing the key figures related to Tanzania’s inflation trends as of May 2025, drawn from the provided Bank of Tanzania. The table focuses on data from relevant sections and the narrative. The table is organized to clearly present the inflation metrics and related government interventions.

      Tanzania Inflation Trends (May 2025) - Key Figures

      CategoryKey Figures
      Headline Inflation (Annual)3.2% in May 2025, unchanged from April 2025
      Food Inflation (Annual)5.6% in May 2025, up from 5.3% in April 2025 and 1.6% in May 2024
      Non-Food Inflation (Annual)Declined in May 2025 (exact rate not specified due to truncation)
      Core Inflation (Annual)2.1% in May 2025, down from 2.2% in April 2025
      Energy, Fuel, and Utilities Inflation (Annual)6.1% in May 2025, down from 7.3% in April 2025
      Month-on-Month Inflation (Overall)0.1% in May 2025
      Inflation by Key Categories (Annual, May 2025)
      - Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages5.6%
      - Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas3.4%
      - Transport1.7%
      - Education3.2%
      - Services (Overall)1.0%
      - Goods (Overall)4.2%
      NFRA Food Stocks (May 2025)509,990 tonnes, up by 170,000 tonnes from May 2024
      NFRA Food Released (May 2025)47,238 tonnes (to stabilize food prices)
      Zanzibar Headline Inflation (Annual)4.2% in May 2025, down from 4.3% in April 2025 and 5.3% in May 2024
      Zanzibar Food Inflation (Annual)3.9% in May 2025, down from 4.1% in April 2025 and 8.9% in May 2024
      Zanzibar Month-on-Month Inflation1.0% in May 2025, up from 0% in April 2025

      Notes

      1. Context:
        • Mainland Tanzania: The 3.2% headline inflation is within the SADC (3–7%) and EAC (≤8%) benchmarks, reflecting effective monetary policy (e.g., Central Bank Rate at 6%).
        • Food Inflation Drivers: The rise to 5.6% is due to supply-demand imbalances from heavy rains affecting transportation and higher prices for staples like maize and rice.
        • Zanzibar: The decline in inflation (4.2%) is driven by improved food supply, particularly for sugar, rice, and yellow cooking bananas.
        • NFRA Intervention: The release of 47,238 tonnes and increased stocks to 509,990 tonnes highlight proactive measures to curb food price volatility.

      Tanzania’s inflation rate of 3.0% in October 2024 highlights its remarkable economic stability, outperforming many African countries. With projections of further decline to 2.5% by 2026, Tanzania’s prudent fiscal and monetary policies position it as a competitive and attractive destination for investment and trade in East Africa and beyond.

      Tanzania's Inflation Overview:

      1. Current Rate: 3.0% (October 2024), a decrease from 3.1% in September 2024.
      2. Historical Context:
        • Average (1999-2024): 6.28%.
        • Peak: 19.8% in December 2011.
        • Lowest: 3.0% in November 2018.
      3. Projections:
        • End of 2024: Expected to remain at 3.0%.
        • 2025: Projected at 2.7%.
        • 2026: Projected at 2.5%.

      Comparison with East African Countries:

      Comparison with African Countries:

      Insights:

      1. East Africa: Tanzania maintains a stable inflation rate within the region, performing better than countries like Ethiopia and Sudan, which face double-digit inflation.
      2. Africa: Tanzania's inflation rate is among the lowest in the continent, reflecting stable monetary and fiscal policies compared to nations like Zimbabwe and Nigeria that struggle with high inflation.
      3. Global Trends: The current inflation rate in Tanzania aligns with global trends of decreasing inflation, especially in Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs).

      Strategic Outlook for Tanzania:

      1. Maintaining low inflation enhances Tanzania’s economic attractiveness for investment.
      2. Continued focus on fiscal discipline and prudent monetary policy will help Tanzania sustain inflation stability, bolstering economic growth amidst global uncertainties.

      Implications of Tanzania's Inflation Trends and Comparisons

      1. Economic Stability:
        • Tanzania’s inflation rate of 3.0% reflects macroeconomic stability. It signals controlled price levels and effective management of monetary policy by the Bank of Tanzania.
      2. Regional Competitiveness:
        • In East Africa, Tanzania’s inflation is comparable to Kenya (2.7%) and Uganda (2.9%), showing it is performing well within the region.
        • This makes Tanzania attractive for investments and trade compared to neighboring countries facing higher price volatility.
      3. Low Inflation Advantages:
        • Consumers: Stable inflation preserves purchasing power, ensuring that basic goods and services remain affordable.
        • Businesses: Predictable price levels reduce uncertainty, encouraging investment and expansion.
        • Government: Low inflation helps manage public finances better as borrowing costs remain under control.
      4. Comparison to Africa:
        • Tanzania is among the low-inflation countries in Africa, significantly better than nations like Nigeria (33.88%) or Zimbabwe (57.5%).
        • This highlights Tanzania as a model for price stability in Sub-Saharan Africa, enhancing its reputation among global investors.
      5. Policy Success:
        • Sustained low inflation reflects effective fiscal policies, stable exchange rates, and good food supply management, vital for keeping inflation in check.
      6. Projection Implications:
        • Future Outlook: Inflation is projected to decrease further to 2.7% in 2025 and 2.5% in 2026, indicating continued economic resilience.
        • Lower inflation will strengthen Tanzania’s position in the global market, offering confidence to foreign investors.
      7. Risks to Watch:
        • External shocks like global oil price hikes or disruptions in food supply could increase inflation.
        • Regional instability or currency fluctuations could also affect inflation dynamics.

      Conclusion

      Tanzania’s controlled inflation tells a story of economic discipline, regional competitiveness, and future potential. It positions the country as a stable and attractive hub for business and investment in Africa.

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