Industrial Prices Rise 4.8% in January 2026, Driven by Energy and Mining Sectors

The increase, outlined in a report released March 2, 2026, was primarily driven by a 20.4% rise in prices in the mineral processing sector, a 2.5% increase in prices in the manufacturing of various goods, and a 34.8% surge in electricity prices.

Compared with December 2025, industrial producer prices rose 1.1%, largely due to a 1.2% increase in prices of goods produced by various manufacturing industries.

Domestic industrial goods also saw price increases, rising 2.8% in January 2026 compared with January 2025. NISR attributed this to a 0.2% rise in prices of manufactured goods and the 34.8% increase in electricity costs, which significantly affects production expenses.

Export-oriented industrial goods experienced a sharper rise of 15.3% year-on-year, mainly driven by the 20.4% increase in mineral processing prices and a 5.2% rise in manufactured goods prices.

However, when compared with December 2025, prices for industrial goods destined for export declined 1.3%, reflecting a 3.1% decrease in prices for various manufactured products.

NISR’s report highlights that energy costs, particularly electricity, and the mining sector remain key drivers of industrial price fluctuations in Rwanda. The data provides insights for policymakers, investors, and manufacturers monitoring inflationary pressures in the industrial sector.

The increase in producer prices for domestic and export goods underscores ongoing challenges for Rwandan industries as they balance rising input costs with competitive market demands both locally and internationally.