Annual inflation in Hungary was 3.1 percent in February

Annual inflation in Hungary was 3.1 percent in February, the Central Statistical Office (KSH) said on Tuesday.

Inflation grew at a higher rate than 2.7 percent registered in January, with higher tobacco prices due to excise tax increases putting upward pressure on the index. The price of tobacco products jumped by 16.5 percent, while spirits and tobacco increased by 9.9 percent.

Prices in the category of goods that includes vehicle fuel increased by 2.7 percent, while vehicle fuel prices were up 4.6 percent. Food prices increased by 3.4 percent and the price of services rose by 1.7 percent.

Household energy prices edged up by 0.3 percent, consumer durable prices increased by 3.8 percent and clothing prices fell by 1.6 percent.

Adjusted for better comparison with other European Union member states, CPI stood at 3.3 percent.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and fuel prices, was 4.1 percent.