Overall consumer prices rose 1.4% year-on-year in March, smaller than the average rate of increase in January and February, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.
 
Netting out the effects of the Government’s one-off relief measures, underlying inflation was 1%, also smaller than the average rate of increase in January and February.
 
Compared with a year before, price increases were recorded in March in the following categories: electricity, gas and water; alcoholic drinks and tobacco; transport; housing; meals out and takeaway food; miscellaneous goods; and miscellaneous services.  
 
Meanwhile, year-on-year decreases were logged in clothing and footwear; basic food; and durable goods.
 
The Government said overall inflation should remain modest in the near term, adding that external price pressures should be broadly in check, though escalating trade conflicts continue to warrant attention.