The Iranian Statistical Center has reported a dramatic increase in food prices, contributing to the ongoing economic hardships faced by the people. The latest data indicates substantial price hikes for various essential food items compared to the same period last year.
One of the most notable increases is the 90% rise in the price of canned tuna, which has surged from 44,000 tomans to 84,616 tomans for a 180-gram can. Similarly, the price of raisins has climbed by 67%, going from 115,000 tomans to 217,000 tomans per kilogram. The cost of a 450-gram can of powdered milk has also seen a significant jump, increasing from 66,000 tomans to 110,000 tomans, while the price of mushrooms has risen from 75,000 tomans to 123,000 tomans per kilogram.
These sharp increases are part of a broader trend of rising food prices, with the Statistical Center highlighting that the prices of various legumes have also seen steep hikes. For instance, the price of pinto beans has increased by 29% to approximately 107,000 tomans per kilogram, while red beans have soared by 50%, surpassing 100,000 tomans per kilogram. Lentils and split peas have also experienced significant price increases of 35.4% and 32.8%, respectively, reaching 90,000 tomans and 85,000 tomans per kilogram.
In addition to these figures, the center’s data reveals that food and beverage inflation reached over 45% in February 2024, with red meat leading the way with a staggering 93% inflation rate. This surge has contributed to the overall annual inflation rate for this category surpassing the average total inflation rate.
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State radio chief explicitly warns hosts and anchors that such stories are considered against the #Iranian regime's security and disregarding his instructions will have consequences for them and their network. pic.twitter.com/GxeO4qjgA4— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) May 10, 2022
As food prices skyrocket, the Iranian regime is using the upcoming sham elections to divert attention from these economic crises. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and state media have been heavily promoting the elections, overshadowing the severe livelihood issues that have led to widespread public discontent. Social media has become a platform for citizens to voice their frustrations, often mocking election-related propaganda.
A report from the state-run Iran Dideban on June 2 emphasized that lamb prices have once again increased, making it the most expensive food item currently. Additionally, staples such as noodles, rice, and dairy products, along with 22 other food items, have seen price hikes this month.
On the same day, the state-run website Entekhab reported that due to reduced purchasing power, the per capita consumption of milk and dairy products in Iran has plummeted to half the global standards.
Beyond the rising cost of food, housing prices continue to strain the population. This economic pressure is compounded by stagnant wages and persistent inflation. Adding insult to injury, the regime frequently touts the legacy of former president Ebrahim Raisi, known for his harsh policies, which further angers Iranians.
The economic distress and political maneuvers have heightened public anger, with many citizens harboring revolutionary sentiments as they come to understand that there is no other way but radical change.
Watch how the regime's MPs complain about the soaring prices of household #gas and judge if this has anything to do with #IranRevolution2023 pic.twitter.com/1tdAsvVjZg
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) January 30, 2023