Colombo: Sri Lanka’s annual inflation rate surged to more than 70% in August as it struggles with its worst economic crisis in more than 70 years.
Official data also showed food prices rose by 84.6% compared to a year ago.
The South Asian nation of 22m people was plunged into financial and political chaos this year as it faced a shortage of foreign currencies.
The country has been unable to afford key imports – including fuel, fertiliser and medicine.
Last month, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka said it expected inflation to ease, as the country’s economy slowed, after peaking at about 70%.
