The Retail Price Index decreased by 0.69 per cent in November 2006, bringing the inflation rate to 3.01 per cent.

In November 2006, the Retail Price Index decreased by 0.69 per cent to 109.88 This primarily reflected a decrease of 4.43 per cent in the Transport and Communications Index. This was mainly due to a drop in air transport services and fuel prices.

The Water and Electricity Index decreased by 2.56 per cent during the month under review.

The Clothing and Footwear Index rose by 2.44 per cent over October due to price increases in outerwear and women’s footwear. The Food Index increased by 0.99 per cent. This was mostly due to price increases in fresh fish, fresh fruit and fresh vegetables. The Household Equipment and House Maintenance Cost Index increased by 0.30 per cent due to higher prices of household appliances and household textile articles.

The Housing Index registered an increase of 0.24 per cent due to higher cost of rents. Other slight increases were recorded in the Recreation and Culture Index and the Other Goods and Services Index.

The 12-month moving average rate of inflation stood at 3.01 per cent in November 2006 compared to 3.27 per cent in October.