Fuel prices in mainland Portugal rose sharply between 28 February and 27 September as the Middle East conflict disrupted oil markets and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Standard diesel increased from 1.596 euros to 2.219 euros per litre, while standard 95 octane petrol rose from 1.681 euros to 2.113 euros. Nuno Figueiredo, spokesperson for consumer-rights organisation DECO PROteste, said the effects would reach almost the entire economy, although fisheries, agriculture, freight, passenger transport and construction are likely to feel them fastest. Statistics Portugal (INE) said August inflation accelerated to 3.3%, with the increase almost entirely explained by diesel, while energy-product prices rose 12.2% from a year earlier. Transport groups, retailers, manufacturers and medicine distributors have warned of higher operating costs, margin pressure and possible increases in consumer prices. DECO PROteste recorded a 1.86-euro weekly decline in its basket of 63 essential food items between 16 and 23 September, underscoring the difficulty of forecasting prices. Figueiredo advised consumers to make larger monthly purchases during periods when food prices are falling.