India's wholesale price inflation surged to 9.68% in May 2026, up from 8.26% in April, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on June 15, 2026. The sharp increase was primarily driven by a spike in prices of fuel and power, manufactured items, and food articles.
The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) data showed that the fuel and power segment rose significantly, while manufactured products and food items also contributed to the upward pressure. The ministry's statement highlighted that the inflation rate was the highest in recent months, reflecting persistent cost pressures across sectors.
Economists noted that the rise in WPI inflation could impact consumer prices in the coming months, though the Reserve Bank of India typically focuses on retail inflation for policy decisions. The data comes amid global commodity price volatility and domestic supply chain challenges.
Further details from the ministry indicated that the primary articles index, including food, rose by 7.2% year-on-year in May, while fuel and power inflation stood at 15.3%. Manufactured products inflation was recorded at 8.9%.
