In March 2026, global food prices rose amid the war in the Middle East, which pushed up energy and transportation costs. This is stated in a UN report, UNN reports.
Details
According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, the food price index rose by 2.4% in March. This is the second consecutive monthly increase. Vegetable oil and sugar rose the most - by 5% and 7% respectively.
The UN warns that the war could further exacerbate food inflation due to rising fuel, fertilizer, and electricity prices. The report notes that about a third of global fertilizer production passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed since the beginning of the war. If the crisis drags on, global prices could be 15-20% higher on average in the first half of 2026.
Also in March, global wheat prices rose by 4.3%. This was influenced by deteriorating crop conditions in the US, drought risks, and reduced acreage in Australia due to more expensive fertilizers.
In the UK, it is already predicted that food prices will rise by at least 9% by the end of 2026. Companies also expect further price increases in the coming months.
Recall
Earlier, we wrote that vegetables may rise in price by 12%, and bread and meat will increase in price due to the rising cost of fuel to $120 per barrel and seasonal stock shortages.