The Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL) raised its discount rate by 25 basis points to 7.0% at its September 2026 meeting, as widely expected. It was the second rate hike this year, amid heightened inflation risks from elevated energy prices linked to tensions in the Middle East. CBL Governor Emmanuel Maluke Letete cited global and domestic developments, noting increased uncertainty, oil prices above US$100 per barrel and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Inflation is projected to rise to 4.7% in 2027, mainly due to higher food prices, while real GDP growth is expected to remain modest in 2026 before gradually strengthening over 2027–2028. source: Central Bank of Lesotho
The benchmark interest rate in Lesotho was last recorded at 7 percent. Interest Rate in Lesotho averaged 7.99 percent from 1980 until 2026, reaching an all time high of 20.42 percent in December of 1990 and a record low of 3.50 percent in July of 2020. This page provides - Lesotho Interest Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news. Lesotho Interest Rate - data, historical chart, forecasts and calendar of releases - was last updated on October of 2026.
The benchmark interest rate in Lesotho was last recorded at 7 percent. Interest Rate in Lesotho is expected to be 7.25 percent by the end of this quarter, according to Trading Economics global macro models and analysts expectations. In the long-term, the Lesotho Interest Rate is projected to trend around 6.75 percent in 2027 and 6.25 percent in 2028, according to our econometric models.