Households across Tanzania continue to face rising living costs as food inflation remains elevated at 7 percent, placing sustained pressure on family budgets and consumer spending. The persistent increase in food prices has particularly affected staple commodities such as rice, beans, sugar, cooking oil, and maize flour, which form a significant share of household expenditure.
According to market observations in major urban centres, including Dar es Salaam, food prices have remained high due to a combination of factors, including increased production and transportation costs, seasonal supply constraints, and global price movements. Traders note that while supplies are generally available, higher input costs are being passed on to consumers, limiting affordability for many families.
Economists say food inflation continues to play a central role in overall inflation trends, given that food accounts for a large portion of household spending, especially among low- and middle-income earners. As a result, many households are adjusting consumption patterns by prioritising essential goods, reducing portion sizes, or switching to cheaper alternatives.
The impact is being felt most strongly among urban households that rely heavily on market purchases, as opposed to rural families that may supplement their food needs through subsistence farming. Rising food prices have also affected informal sector workers whose incomes remain largely unchanged despite higher living costs.
Despite the pressure on households, analysts point out that inflation has remained relatively stable in recent months, suggesting that price increases are not accelerating. This stability is partly attributed to government interventions aimed at improving food supply chains, supporting agricultural production, and maintaining macroeconomic stability.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to strengthening domestic food production, improving storage and distribution infrastructure, and supporting farmers to boost output. These measures are expected to help ease food prices over time and improve household purchasing power.
As food inflation remains a key concern, households continue to adapt while policymakers monitor price trends closely, balancing the need for economic stability with the protection of consumers’ welfare.
