News24 | Consumers get food price relief, but fuel pushes inflation beyond the comfort zone

Inflation climbed to 4.5% in May, slightly higher than expected but still below the 4.7% anticipated by economists, marking the highest rate since July 2024. While consumers are benefiting from lower food prices, rising fuel costs have driven this increase, pushing inflation beyond what many consider comfortable. This trend is significant because it signals potential economic challenges ahead, especially if fuel prices continue to rise, potentially affecting everything from transportation costs to consumer spending power.