JAKARTA. The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) noted that the food and beverage group had driven inflation up in March 2023 by 0.18% compared to February which was 0.16%. Meanwhile, on an annual basis, the inflation rate in March was recorded at 4.97%, down from February 2023 which was 5.47%.

BPS Deputy for Distribution and Services Statistics Pudji Ismartini said there was an increase in the consumer price index (CPI) to 114.36 in March 2023 from 114.16 in February 2023. February 2023 inflation is 0.16%, said Pudji in a BPS press conference, Tuesday (3/4).

From the expenditure side, the biggest contributors to inflation on a monthly basis were the food group (namely rice and cayenne pepper), beverages and tobacco. Also air transport, petrol and filter kretek cigarettes. Meanwhile, the housing, water, electricity and household fuel group experienced deflation. (AM/LM)