According to the Central Bank of Uzbekistan's regular survey, the annual inflation expectations of the population in April stood at 10.6%, down by 0.4 percentage points from the previous month. This indicator reflects citizens' forecasts for price growth over the next 12 months.

Among business entities, inflation expectations also decreased: in April they amounted to 10.3%, down by 0.4 p.p. from March. However, the survey results show increased concerns regarding certain factors.

For the second consecutive month, the population's concerns about rising utility and energy prices have grown. The share of respondents who perceive the impact of rising staple food prices, as well as increases in wages and pensions on inflation, has also increased. Concerns related to exchange rate fluctuations have somewhat moderated.

For businesses, utility and energy prices remain the main source of concern. In April, worries about rising transportation costs and raw material prices intensified significantly. According to the Central Bank's commentary, this is explained by logistical disruptions amid heightened geopolitical tensions in recent months. The share of respondents concerned about exchange rate changes and high tax burden also increased.

Among different population groups, the highest inflation expectations were recorded among pensioners, while the lowest were among students. Among entrepreneurs, the highest expectations were noted in the culture and arts sector, and the lowest in the transportation services sector.

Regionally, the highest inflation expectations were recorded in Tashkent city, Tashkent region, and Kashkadarya region, while the lowest were in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and Navoi region.

Source: www.gazeta.uz