In March, Germany’s annual inflation rate appears to have risen sharply from the 1.9 % recorded in February, likely a consequence of the war in the Middle East. Early data released on Monday morning by the individual states confirm this trend. The strongest jump was reported in Saarland, where inflation climbed from 1.8 % to 3.0 %. In North Rhine‑Westphalia it rose from 1.8 % to 2.7 %, while Hesse and Rhineland‑Palatinate each edged up from 1.8 % and 1.9 % respectively to 2.9 %. Other states also reported increases: Saxony, Brandenburg, and Bavaria now show 2.8 %-up from 2.3 %, 2.0 %, and 1.9 % respectively. Saxony‑Anhalt reports 2.6 % (previously 2.0 %), Berlin 2.5 % (from 1.9 %), Lower Saxony 2.6 % (from 1.9 %), and Baden‑Württemberg 2.5 % (from 1.8 %). The Federal Statistical Office will publish its provisional March estimate later in the day, usually around 2 p.m.; the final figures are expected in mid‑month, with changes being rare.
Inflation Soars March as Middle East Conflict Fuels Cost of Living
