The increase of consumer price index slowed down in March

The increase of the consumer price index that had continuously accelerated since September 2007 slowed down in March. In January 2008 the increase was 11.0% and in February 11.3%.

Change of the consumer price index compared to the same month of the previous year, 2007–2008 (percentage)

In March 2008 compared to March of the previous year, the prices of goods changed by 10.1%, of which the prices of food by 14.5% and the prices of manufactured goods by 6.6%. The prices of services increased 12.6%. Regulated prices of goods and services changed by 19.8% and non-regulated prices by 8.5%. The index was mainly influenced by the price increase of food, as well as by the increase in the prices of heat energy, heating materials and motor fuel. Dairy-, cereal- and meat products gave three fourths of the price increase of food.

On average, the prices of goods and services in March were 0.8% higher than in February.

The consumer price index was mainly influenced by the increase in the prices of motor fuel, bread products and fresh vegetables (4.9%, 5.0% and 8.0%, respectively). Electricity was 2.4% cheaper compared to the previous month.

Change of the consumer price index by commodity groups, March 2008