South Africa Inflation Rate — 2026 CPI Data, Trend & Outlook
South Africa's inflation rate was 4.17% in August 2026, up from 4.07% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 3.30%.
South Africa's inflation rate stands at 4.17% as of August 2026. The inflation rate currently sits at 4.17% (up from 4.07% in the prior month). Across the tracked window it has ranged between 1.94% and 8.07%, and is 0.86% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 194 economies tracked on this platform, South Africa ranks #64 on inflation rate by latest value. It rose from 4.07% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 3.30%.
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 |
|---|---|
| Aug 2026 | 4.17% |
| Jul 2026 | 4.07% |
| Jun 2026 | 4.79% |
| May 2026 | 4.41% |
| Apr 2026 | 3.83% |
| Mar 2026 | 2.95% |
| Feb 2026 | 2.87% |
| Jan 2026 | 3.39% |
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 South Africa Right Now (2026)?
South Africa's inflation rate was 4.17% in August 2026, up from 4.07% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 3.30%.
Is the inflation rate rising or falling in South Africa?
It rose in the latest reading — 4.17% in August 2026 versus 4.07% 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).