Chile: Inflation rises to near four-year high in February
Consumer prices rose 0.4% over the previous month in February, moderating from January’s 0.6% increase. According to the Statistical Institute, February’s result reflected lower prices for alcoholic beverages, and recreation and culture, as well as a softer increase in food prices.
Inflation logged 3.9% in February, up from January’s 3.5% and marking the highest reading since July 2016. Thus, inflation neared the upper bound of the Central Bank’s 2.0%–4.0% target band. Meanwhile, core inflation rose to 2.7% from January’s 2.5%.
Lastly, annual average inflation crept up to 2.6%, from 2.4% in January.