2.1% inflation in April

Overall consumer prices rose 2.1% in April year-on-year, larger than the 1.7% increase in March, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

Netting out the effects of the Government's one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate was 1.8%, slightly larger than March's 1.7%.

Compared with April last year, price increases were seen in alcoholic drinks and tobacco, electricity, gas and water, clothing and footwear, meals out and takeaway food, miscellaneous services, transport, miscellaneous goods and housing.

On the other hand, compared to the same period last year, a decrease in durable goods was recorded.

As for basic food, the price remained unchanged over a year earlier.

The Government said the underlying consumer price inflation rate edged up to 1.8% in April from 1.7% in March.

It noted that prices of energy-related items continued to increase sharply year-on-year, and those of clothing and footwear as well as meals out and takeaway food rose visibly.

Price pressures on other major components remained broadly in check.

Looking ahead, domestic cost pressures may increase alongside the economic recovery.

External price pressures should see some moderation, but they are likely to remain notable for some time.

Overall inflation will likely pick up in the rest of the year, though remaining largely moderate, the Government added.