Dominican Republic and Guatemala report rising food costs

The Dominican Republic's central bank reported that in May 2026 the price of chicken fell 6.60% and bananas 3.89%, partially offsetting rises in gasoline (regular +3.87%, premium +5.17%). Overall consumer‑price inflation was 0.31% month‑on‑month, with annual inflation at 5.35%, above the 4 ± 1% target range. Underlying inflation remained within target at 4.86% annual. Transport contributed the most to price growth (2.16%), while airline fares, inter‑urban bus tickets and motorcycle‑taxi fares also increased. Restaurants and hotels saw a modest 0.41% rise.

Guatemala's National Institute of Statistics said the urban basic food basket cost Q941.86 per person in May 2026, up 0.57% from April, while the rural basket was Q726. The expanded basket, which adds housing, transport, health and education, reached Q2,280.23 in urban areas and Q1,428.77 in rural areas. Although the overall CPI showed a slight decline, food costs continue to rise, driven partly by higher spending on meals eaten outside the home.