The cost of living continued to rise in July as fuel and electricity became more expensive. However, international flight prices fell by 10.2%, providing some welcome relief for people travelling to and from the Canary Islands.

Spain’s annual inflation rate reached 3.6%, up from 3.2% in June. The increase was mainly caused by rising motoring and household energy costs.

Diesel prices were 15.7% higher than a year earlier, while petrol increased by 7.3%. Electricity costs rose by 8.4%, and natural gas prices increased by 4.1%.

The Spanish Government will increase its diesel tax reduction to 20 cents per litre in September after prices rose beyond the threshold set for extra support. The petrol reduction will remain at five cents per litre.

Food and non-alcoholic drink prices rose by 1.6%, the smallest annual increase since 2021. However, fresh berries increased by 17.2%, citrus fruit by 15.5%, eggs by 13.4% and beef by 9.9%.

Some fruit became significantly cheaper. Prices for tropical fruit, dates and figs fell by 15.4%, while other fresh fruit dropped by 14.8%.

Hotels and restaurants were 9.9% more expensive than a year ago. Rubbish collection charges also increased by 22.7%.

International flight prices recorded one of July’s biggest falls, dropping by 10.2%. Travelling by boat was also 9.9% cheaper.

For Canary Islands residents and visitors, cheaper flights and ferry fares may help reduce travel costs. However, households and motorists continue to face higher energy and fuel bills.