Braai inflation: The 29% surge in beef rump steak prices and its impact on households

Beef rump steak prices have climbed 29% since 2022, outpacing headline inflation and putting added pressure on festive braai budgets. South Africa’s favourite pastime is feeling the heat. While annual consumer inflation measured 3,6% in December 2025, the cost of key braai favourites has risen sharply — with beef rump steak leading the increase.

According to Statistics South Africa’s latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release, annual inflation ticked up to 3,6% in December, from 3,5% in November. But some braai staples have climbed at rates well above the current headline figure. Beef rump steak recorded the steepest increase among the featured braai items over the past three years.

The average price for a kilogram of rump steak was R166,01 during the festive season in 2022. From steak to pap, several braai staples have risen sharply since 2022 — with rump steak up 29% by December 2025, according to Stats SA data. The broader meat category reflects similar pressure. Nationally, meat inflation measured 12,6% year-on-year in December 2025, significantly higher than the overall inflation rate.