Inflation climbs to 3.5% in Catalonia
The annual inflation rate in Catalonia rose to 3.5% in July 2026, up from 3.2% in June, according to data from Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE). This marks a three-tenths increase and confirms renewed upward pressure on living costs across the region. The rise places Catalonia slightly below the national average, where inflation reached 3.6%, its highest level in two years. The INE attributes the nationwide increase primarily to higher energy prices, including electricity and liquid fuels, as well as rising transport and housing costs.
Restaurants, transport and housing hit hardest
Price increases were most pronounced in restaurants and accommodation, which saw a 5.2% rise compared to July 2025. Transport followed closely with a 5.1% increase, driven by fuel prices, while housing costs jumped 5% due to higher electricity and gas bills. Other sectors with notable rises included financial services and personal care, both up 3.9%. In contrast, clothing and footwear prices fell by 1.7%, offering some relief to consumers. Food and non-alcoholic beverages increased by 3.1%, while furniture and household goods rose moderately at 1.5%.
"The cost of dining out, travel and keeping homes powered is weighing more heavily on households this summer," said an economic analyst familiar with the INE report.
Girona sees sharpest price rises
Provincial data shows Girona experienced the steepest inflation in Catalonia at 3.4% year-on-year, followed by Tarragona (3.1%), Lleida (2.8%) and Barcelona (2.7%). On a monthly basis, Girona also recorded the largest single-month increase, with prices up 0.5% from June to July. Tarragona rose 0.3%, Barcelona 0.2% and Lleida 0.1%.
Consumers may see some mitigation in diesel costs later in the year. The Ministry of Economy confirmed that, due to diesel’s 15.7% annual price rise exceeding the 15% threshold, a safeguard clause has been triggered under the government’s response plan. From September, the fuel tax reduction on diesel will increase to 20 cents per litre, up from the previously scheduled 5 cents. Petrol, which rose 7.3% annually, remains below the threshold and will continue under the original phase-out schedule, with a 5 cent reduction applying in September. For updated official statistics, visit the INE website.
Reported by El Periódico, ine.es, EP, ANDREY RUDAKOV / BLOOMBERG / VÍDEO: Europa Press, Por Naroa Caro Agregar Infobae en Agrega Infobae a tus medios preferidos en Google, Por Newsroom Infobae Seguir, europesays.com, notimerica.com, Pablo Gallén, CatalunyaPress.cat.
