In October 2008, the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices increased by 1.07 per cent over the previous month, rising from 110.98 to 112.05. This was primarily caused by an increase of 8.9 per cent in the Clothing and Footwear Index, mainly due to the introduction of new stocks in the market.

The Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels Index went up by 5.8 per cent, mainly on account of water and electricity tariffs.

An increase of 5.3 per cent was registered in the Education Index, due to higher school and private tuition fees.

Seasonal increases in the prices of fruit and vegetables caused the Food and Nonalcoholic Beverages Index to rise by 3.5 per cent.

The Recreation and Culture Index went up by 0.6 per cent, due to higher prices of newspapers and periodicals.

Higher prices of products used for personal care and of certain types of financial services contributed to a 0.5 per cent increase in the Miscellaneous Goods and Services Index.

The Transport Index shifted up by 0.2 per cent, mainly on account of higher prices of motor cars and road transport.

A similar increase was recorded in the Furniture, Household Equipment and Routine Maintenance of the House Index, mainly brought about by costlier household textiles and higher fees for repairs of household appliances.

The Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Index moved marginally upward on account of an increase in the price of wine.

The Restaurants and Hotels Index registered a drop of 3.8 per cent, seasonal price reductions in accommodation services being the main contributory factor.

In October, the twelve-month moving average rate of inflation stood at 4.4 per cent, whereas the annual rate of inflation stood at 5.8 per cent.

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