Energy and fuel prices push Dutch inflation to 3.7 percent in October

Daily life in the Netherlands became 3.7 percent more expensive in October compared to a year earlier, according to a quick estimate by Statistics Netherlands (CBS). This marks a further increase in inflation, following a rise to 3.4 percent in September. While groceries became slightly cheaper than a year ago, energy and motor fuel prices rose further.

The war in the Middle East, which started in late February, significantly increased oil and gas prices this year. As a result, inflation reached 3.5 percent by May. In February, before the first attacks, inflation was 2.4 percent. Inflation is now at its highest level since April 2025.

In October, prices for energy and motor fuels rose by over 14 percent, following an increase of nearly 14 percent in September. Prices for food, beverages, and tobacco fell by 0.6 percent, following a 1.2 percent fall in September. Grocery prices stopped climbing in recent months, or rose only marginally.

Prices in the service sector rose by 3.9 percent, matching the 3.9 percent increase seen a month earlier. Industrial goods became 1.9 percent more expensive, following a 1.5 percent rise in September.

Compared to September, consumer prices were 0.7 percent higher in October. However, CBS notes that this figure should be taken with caution, as temporary seasonal effects - such as price reductions during clothing sales - can have a significant impact. These markdowns do not represent a permanent price decrease.

Based on the European measurement method, inflation in the Netherlands was 3.3 percent last month, up from 3 percent in September. The method agreed upon within the European Union does not consider the costs associated with living in one’s owner-occupied home, whereas the Dutch method does include them.