Consumer prices up 2% in April

Underlying inflation was 1.3%.

Overall consumer prices increased by 2% year-on-year in April, marking a larger rise compared to March, as per the Census & Statistics Department.

Excluding one-off government relief measures, underlying inflation was 1.3%, also up from March.

Price hikes were noted in several categories compared to April last year, including electricity, gas and water, transport, housing, meals out, takeaway food, miscellaneous goods, alcoholic drinks, and tobacco.

Prices fell for clothing, footwear, durable goods, and basic food.

The government said that inflationary pressures have remained generally moderate in recent months, with key price components staying relatively stable.

It added that travel-related charges rose due to the Easter holidays in April, contributing to the increased underlying inflation rate for the month.

Looking ahead, the government expects overall inflation to remain modest in the near term, with domestic cost and external price pressures largely contained.