WILLEMSTAD – Consumer prices on Curaçao increased again in March 2026, driven mainly by higher transport, housing, food, and utility costs, according to new figures released by the Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek (CBS).
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose from 104.7 in February to 105.1 in March, representing a monthly increase of 0.3 percent.
According to the CBS, inflation measured over a twelve-month period reached 1.7 percent in March 2026.
The largest price increases during the month were recorded in the categories of transport and communication, which rose by 1.3 percent. Housing costs increased by 0.5 percent, while beverages and tobacco rose by 0.3 percent and food prices increased by 0.1 percent.
Several categories recorded slight declines. Recreation and education fell by 0.2 percent, while household furnishings and household goods also declined by 0.2 percent. The category classified as “other expenses” decreased by 0.1 percent.
The CBS explained that inflation reflects the loss of purchasing power caused by rising prices for goods and services over a longer period, usually measured across twelve months.
Because of that, inflation figures are commonly used as an indexation benchmark for salaries, pensions, social benefits, minimum wages, and other forms of income.
According to the statistical office, the twelve-month average CPI increased from 103.2 in March 2025 to 105.0 in March 2026.
Although inflation remains relatively moderate compared to previous years, the continued rise in living costs remains an important issue for households and businesses on Curaçao, particularly amid ongoing concerns about purchasing power, food prices, and utility expenses.