Verbraucherpreise im Oktober: Tankrabatt drückt Inflation wieder unter Drei-Prozent-Marke

In October, Germany's consumer prices rose slightly less than in September due to the ongoing fuel rebate, but the inflation rate remained at 2.8% - the lowest level since late 2020. The overall inflation rate for the year stood at 3.3% in September, the highest in nearly three years. The German government had lowered the energy tax on gasoline and diesel from October 1, 2026, until December 2026, resulting in up to 17 cents per liter of relief, inclusive of VAT.

Consumer prices fell by 0.2% in October 2026 compared to September, as confirmed by the Federal Statistical Office. Economists do not expect any lasting impact from the fuel rebate, as the conflict between the US and Iran, which has been driving energy prices since late February, remains unresolved. It is anticipated that rising energy prices will gradually increase the cost of other goods and services.

The inflation rate in Germany is expected to rise from 2.8% this year to 3.2% in 2027, dampening consumer purchasing power. In October, consumers paid 12.2% more for fuel and household energy compared to the same period last year. Despite the fuel rebate, motor fuels and household energy costs increased by 12.2% compared to last year.

However, the inflation rate slowed down after a 15% rise in September. Rising food prices could be expected due to the summer heatwave, especially for seasonally dependent food items. In October, food prices rose by a moderate 0.4% compared to September. Eggs increased by 15.4%, and fresh vegetables, including potatoes, rose by 11.5%.

Service sectors, including auto repairs, holiday packages, and restaurant dining, continued their downward trend, increasing by 2.5%. The Federal Reserve's two-percent inflation target seems farther away, with Deutsche Bank forecasting 3.4% inflation in 2027.