Mexico’s annual inflation rate moved above 4% in February 2026, largely driven by higher prices for fruits, vegetables and cigarettes, according to data released by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI).
Consumer prices rose 0.50% compared with the previous month, bringing the annual inflation rate to 4.02%. In February 2025, inflation stood at 0.28% month over month and 3.77% annually.
A key driver was the non-core component of the consumer price index, which increased 0.64% during the month. Within this category, fruit and vegetable prices rose 4.94% in February and 9.88% year over year.
Tomatoes recorded one of the most notable increases, rising 22.51% during the month and making the largest contribution to the overall inflation index. Other significant price jumps were seen in limes (25.97%), potatoes and other tubers (20.86%), green tomatoes (18.89%), and bananas (10.79%).
Higher produce costs also affected prepared food prices. Small eateries such as lunch counters, taquerias and fondas raised prices by 0.80% during the month, while other prepared food items increased 0.86%.
Overall, the food, beverages and tobacco category posted an annual increase of 6.20%. Cigarette prices rose 2.27% in February.
Economists note that the uptick in inflation comes before potential external pressures — including geopolitical tensions and energy market volatility — are fully reflected in prices. As a result, inflation trends could play a role in upcoming monetary policy decisions by Mexico’s central bank.
Source: Uniradio Informa
