Russian food prices stall as seasonal produce offsets basic staple hikesRussia's food price growth slowed to 0.05% during the week from July 28 to August 3, according to data from the Ministry of Economic Development. While official statistics indicate near-zero inflation, the downward pressure is driven primarily by seasonal declines in the cost of vegetables and eggs rather than a broad reduction in consumer prices. Seasonal Factors and Inflation OutlookThe current dip in headline indicators is attributed to two primary factors—the mass entry of seasonal vegetables into the market and a temporary decrease in fuel costs. This effect is characterized as temporary; once the harvest period ends, fruit and vegetable prices are expected to rise again, potentially triggering a new cycle of general price increases. Valeriy Kozlov, regional economist and analyst of budgets and territorial development: [The current near-zero inflation is masked by seasonal vegetable prices, while basic products continue to grow in price.]