China Inflation Rate — 2026 CPI Data, Trend & Outlook
China's inflation rate was 1.20% in May 2026, little changed from 1.20% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at -0.10%.
China's inflation rate stands at 1.20% as of May 2026. Over the latest readings, the inflation rate has moved within a band of -0.80% to 5.40%. The most recent figure of 1.20% is little changed from 1.20% a month earlier, and is 1.30% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 193 economies tracked on this platform, China ranks #152 on inflation rate by latest value. It was little changed from 1.20% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier -0.10%.
What's driving it
Inflation is shaped by energy and food prices, the exchange rate, wage growth and the stance of monetary policy; central banks lift interest rates to cool it and ease when it falls back toward target.
Recent readings
| Period | Inflation rate |
|---|---|
| May 2026 | 1.20% |
| Apr 2026 | 1.20% |
| Mar 2026 | 1.00% |
| Feb 2026 | 1.30% |
| Jan 2026 | 0.20% |
| Dec 2025 | 0.80% |
| Nov 2025 | 0.70% |
| Oct 2025 | 0.20% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Inflation Rate in China Right Now (2026)?
China's inflation rate was 1.20% in May 2026, little changed from 1.20% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at -0.10%.
Is the inflation rate rising or falling in China?
It was little changed in the latest reading — 1.20% in May 2026 versus 1.20% a month earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is inflation rate?
It measures how fast consumer prices are rising, measured by the consumer price index (CPI).