CONGO'S ECONOMIC CULINARY: UNRAVELING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FOOD IMPORTS AND INFLATION THROUGH ARDL ANALYSIS
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Abstract
In the wake of the oil shocks during the 1970s, the global focus on inflation targeting intensified, becoming a pivotal concern for financial policymakers. This paper delves into the widespread adoption of inflation targeting, a trend observed globally and across continents, as highlighted by Munepapa and Sheefeni (2017). Against the backdrop of escalating commodity prices in international markets, particularly in the food sector, this study investigates the intricate relationship between inflation targeting and the economic challenges posed by rising prices. Globally, the United Nations Food Fund has reported a steady increase in commodity prices, with food prices experiencing a significant surge from 2007 to 2011. The period between 2020 and 2021, marked by COVID-19-related blockades, and the onset of the Ukraine war in 2022, has witnessed a notable acceleration in the worldwide annual inflation rate. As of March 2022, the consumer price index indicates a global inflation rate of 9.2%, surpassing the figures of the preceding months. Sub-Saharan Africa emerges as a critical focus, grappling with the highest inflation rate globally. The annual inflation rate in the region has seen a continuous uptick, reaching 24.6% in March 2022. This alarming trend has significant economic and social implications, causing a sharp decline in purchasing power and national competitiveness. The economic fallout is compounded by a surge in unemployment and heightened poverty levels. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on inflation targeting by providing insights into its global adoption and its repercussions, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. It underscores the critical need for nuanced policy responses to mitigate the economic and social consequences of inflation, offering a comprehensive perspective for policymakers and researchers alike

