Food Price Monitoring and Analysis (FPMA) Bulletin #7, 14 September 2026

Global wheat and maize export prices generally rose in August 2026, underpinned by weather-related production concerns, solid demand and Black Sea trade disruptions. Price increases were recorded across most major exporting countries, while logistical constraints continued to weigh on prices in the Russian Federation and Ukraine. International prices of Indica rice also increased, amid currency movements, purchases by Asian and African importing countries and prospects of tighter exportable supplies. In most domestic markets monitored by FAO, staple food prices remained under upward pressure in July and August 2026, predominantly reflecting localized production shortfalls and sustained cost pressures along food supply chains. Nonetheless, generally favourable supply conditions and improved seasonal availabilities helped contain price increases in some regions, notably Southern Africa, West Africa and East Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia. Elevated energy prices continued to exert upward pressure on production, processing and distribution costs, while disruptions to shipping and trade through key chokepoints added uncertainty and increased import costs, particularly in import‑dependent countries. Meanwhile, growing concerns over the strengthening El Niño event, which is forecast to persist until at least February 2027, pose risks to agricultural production prospects in parts of Far East Asia, East Africa, Southern Africa and Central and South America.