Spanish Inflation at 1.4%

The inflation figure for the month of March places the HICP (Harmonized consumer price index) at 1.4% - the highest for 15 months, with an increase during the month of 0.5%.

March marks the 5th consecutive month of positive inflation following an 8 month period when the index was a negative figure.

The final statistics will be published in 2 weeks time, but the INE National Statistics Institute says the increase in March is due to higher petrol prices and food prices holding remaining constant, compared to last March when they were both falling.

Industry commentators agree that inflation in Spain should remain around 1% over the next few months, although it is expected to increase slightly in July when IVA/VAT goes up.