Perceived inflation in Uzbekistan falls to 10.3% in May

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The level of perceived (personal) inflation among the population of Uzbekistan showed positive dynamics at the end of May 2026, falling to 10.3%.

According to the results of the monthly analytical survey by the Central Bank, which involved 3,438 respondents, the figure decreased by 0.8 percentage points over the month, down from 11.1% in April. Despite the recorded decline, the subjective perception of price growth by citizens is nearly double the official annual inflation rate, which stood at 5.5% in May according to the regulator.

In the regional breakdown, Ferghana Region took the lead in personal inflation, with the figure rising sharply to 12.2% compared to April when the region showed the lowest level at 9.5%. High inflationary pressure was also felt by residents of Samarkand Region at 12.1% and Tashkent at 12%.

At the opposite end of the scale was Navoi Region, recording the minimum figure of 7.9%. A notable improvement in sentiment was recorded in Kashkadarya Region, where perceived inflation fell to 9.8% in May after peaking at 12.9% in April.

In the list of goods and services impacting citizens' budgets the most, meat and milk maintained their leadership, with 54% of respondents noting their price increases. Gasoline and fuel lubricants moved into second place, with 31% of respondents noticing price growth. These were followed by fruit and vegetable products at 29%, and electricity and natural gas at 25%. The fewest complaints were received regarding the cost of rice, bread, flour, and household services, at 7% each.

An analysis by social categories showed that retirees were the most vulnerable group, with their personal inflation level reaching 13%. High figures were also recorded among IT and media specialists at 12.1% and financial sector workers at 11.3%.

Notably, respondents with higher incomes estimate inflation significantly higher. In the group with incomes above 30 million soums, the figure was 13.5%, whereas citizens with an income up to 2 million soums estimated the May price growth at just 8%.