WILLEMSTAD - The Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) of Curaçao has released its latest figures showing that consumer prices on the island increased in March 2025. The consumer price index (CPI) rose by 0.6% compared to February 2025, bringing the index to 104.4 from 103.8 the previous month. 

In March, prices for products and services increased notably in three main spending categories: Transportation and Communication (up 4.0%), Healthcare (up 0.4%), and Recreation and Leisure (up 0.2%). Conversely, prices declined in five other categories: Household Furnishings and Equipment (-0.4%), Food (-0.3%), Housing (-0.2%), Clothing and Footwear (-0.1%), and Miscellaneous (-0.7%). Prices for Alcohol and Tobacco remained unchanged. 

Long-Term Price Trends and Inflation 

Inflation reflects the gradual loss of purchasing power as consumer prices rise over time, typically measured across a 12-month period. It serves as an important benchmark for adjusting salaries, pensions, social benefits, minimum wages, and other incomes. 

When comparing the 12-month average CPI up to March 2025 with the same period a year earlier, inflation stood at 2.4%. The 12-month average CPI increased from 100.7 in March 2024 to 103.2 in March 2025. 

This data highlights a steady upward trend in the cost of living on Curaçao, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and adjustments to income levels to maintain purchasing power.