South Africa's inflation rate jumped to 4.0% in April from 3.1% in March, exceeding consensus expectations of 3.9%.
The figure reaches the upper limit of the South African Reserve Bank's 3±1% target range, increasing the probability of a 25 basis point rate hike to 7.00% next week.
Core inflation also rose to 3.6% from 3.2%, surpassing forecasts and marking the highest level since late 2024.
The rise was partly driven by global oil prices, with core inflation raising broader price pressure concerns.
