Switzerland: Inflation edges up in March
Consumer prices increased a sharp 0.5% over the previous month in March, up from the 0.4% rise registered in February. The increase was the strongest month-on-month rise in five years and was largely the result of skyrocketing clothing and footwear, and recreation and culture prices. Moreover, prices for transport; restaurants and hotels; and communications also rose modestly in March. On the other hand, lower costs of alcoholic beverages and tobacco, and food and non-alcoholic beverages partially offset the rise.
Inflation inched up to 0.7% in March from 0.6% in February. Meanwhile, annual average inflation was stable at 0.9% for the fourth consecutive month in March.