Inflation in Japan in January accelerated to the highest since December 1981

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, consumer prices in the country in January increased by 4.3% in annual terms, the fastest pace since December 1981. 

Thus, the rate of inflation accelerated compared to 4% in December. The indicator coincided with the consensus forecast of analysts. 

On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose by 0.4% In December, the increase was 0.3%.

In particular, food in Japan last month rose by 7.3%, clothing – by 3.1%, furniture and household goods – by 7.7%, medical care – by 0.5%, educational services – by 0.7%, transport and telecommunications services – by 2.1%.

The cost of utilities increased by 14.9%, including electricity rose by 20.2%, gas – by 24.3%.

Inflation excluding fresh food (a key indicator tracked by the country's Central Bank) was 4.2% in January compared to the same month of the previous year – the rate of price growth was also the highest since September 1981. 

Inflation excluding food and energy increased to 3.2% from 3% a month earlier.