Slovakia food prices show signs of stabilization after significant rise

Food prices in Slovakia have experienced a significant increase over the last five years, rising approximately 40 percent compared to five years ago. The most intense period of inflation occurred during 2022 and 2023, driven by high energy costs, transportation expenses, and climate-related factors. During this time, food inflation reached 18.6 percent in 2022 and an additional 17.3 percent in 2023.

Specific commodities saw dramatic price spikes: olive oil prices nearly doubled due to droughts in Spain, and egg prices rose sharply following bird flu outbreaks and increased feed costs. Poultry prices also climbed significantly as consumers shifted away from more expensive beef.

Recent data indicates a shift toward stabilization and even slight decreases in certain categories. In 2026, some months showed year-on-year price drops, with food prices being 0.5 percent cheaper in June and 2.6 percent cheaper in July. By September, the food and non-alcoholic beverage category saw a year-on-year decrease of 3.2 percent, contributing to a cooling of overall inflation.