Analytics, Inflation, Latvia

The largest upward pressures to the price changes came from food, but downward – from goods and services connected with recreation and culture, as well as clothing and footwear.

The seasonal price growth of fresh vegetables (+5.2%) and fruit (+2.9%) had the major upward impact on food. Price increase was recorded for confectionery products, oils and fats, cereals, sugar, bread, fresh meat, milk and dairy products. The most significant offset was non-alcoholic beverages, eggs and fresh fish.

The main downward impact came from cultural services (-3.4%) that was mainly influenced by the cable television fee reduction. Books and recreational and sporting goods and services provided the largest offset.

Influenced by seasonal sales, prices of clothing and footwear decreased on average by 0.8%, of which prices of footwear – by 1.3%, of clothing – by 0.6% and clothing accessories – by 0.2%.

In November there were price increases for automotive fuel, pharmaceutical products, rent, solid fuel, jewellery. The end of special offers affected price rise of products of personal care, dental services, carpets and other floor coverings.

Price reduction was recorded for airline tickets, driver’s courses, materials and services for maintenance and repair of the dwelling, telecommunication equipment, accommodation and sanatorium services. The fall in cleaning and maintenance products, spare parts and accessories for personal transport equipment and household textiles was due to special offers.

Compared to November of the previous year, consumer prices increased by 1.9%. The average price level for goods increased by 3.7%, but for services – decreased by 2.6%.

The annual average rate of change in November 2010 was –1.4%.

Consumer price change by commodity groups, %:

Sub-indices with most important impacts: