Mexico’s inflation accelerated in the first half of September to a pace above the 15-year average, reinforcing the case that price pressures are proving sticky even as headline inflation remains near Banxico’s target band.
Mexico inflation rises in early September
Consumer prices rose 0.33% in the first two weeks of the month, above the 0.28% average for the same period over the past 15 years, Mexico’s statistics agency said. On an annual basis, inflation quickened to 3.42% from 3.26% in the second half of August, while core inflation — which strips out more volatile items — edged down to 3.79% from 3.83%.
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The data matter because they show inflation is still being driven by items that hit household budgets first: fruits and vegetables, the back-to-school season and higher LP gas prices. Banamex said tomatoes, onions and limes were among the biggest contributors, while labor costs and a rebound in agricultural prices are adding to the pressure.
For policymakers, the report complicates the path for the Bank of Mexico, which has been trying to balance slower growth against still-uncomfortable price dynamics. A firmer peso and moderate economic growth have helped cushion inflation, but not enough to erase the effect of food and services costs.
Investors are watching whether the latest print keeps Banxico cautious on rate cuts and supports higher-for-longer local yields. The backdrop also leaves Mexican assets sensitive to external risks cited by Barclays and Moody’s, including El Niño, tariffs, trade uncertainty, higher long-term U.S. rates and a still-restrictive Federal Reserve.
The next test is whether September’s early-month inflation pressure spills into the rest of the month and whether food and energy costs stay elevated into the final quarter.
| Entity | Gains | Losses |
|---|---|---|
| Banxico hawks | ▲Tighter policy case | ▼Rate-cut bets |
| Local bondholders | ▲Higher carry if yields rise | ▼Price gains from easing |
| Mexican consumers | ▲None | ▼Purchasing power |
| Food and energy producers | ▲Pricing power | ▼Households and retailers |
