Annual inflation was 3.5% in February, up from 2.9% in January, according to the state statistics office, Geostat.

On monthly basis inflation stood at 0.2% in February.

Prices on food and non-alcoholic beverages rose 5.7% year-on-year and housing prices saw 9.3% increase on annual basis. Prices for alcoholic beverages and cigarettes rose 7.7% y/y and for healthcare services and hotels and restaurants increased 3.9% and 5%, respectively. Prices in transport group and communication services were down by 0.9% in each, according to Geostat.