Overall consumer prices rose 1.8% in October year-on-year, smaller than the 4.4% increase in September, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

Netting out the effects of the Government's one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate was 1.7%, slightly less than September's 1.8%.

Compared with October last year, price increases were recorded for electricity, gas and water; clothing and footwear; meals out and takeaway food; basic food; alcoholic drinks and tobacco; transport; miscellaneous services, miscellaneous goods and housing.

On the other hand, a year-on-year decrease in price was recorded for durable goods. 

The Government said that underlying consumer price inflation remained moderate in October.

The year-on-year increase in food prices showed some moderation, though remained relatively fast. Prices of clothing and footwear continued to record a visible increase, while those of energy-related items rose sharply. Price pressures on other major components remained broadly in check.

Notwithstanding the intensive external price pressures, overall inflation should remain moderate in the near term amid largely mild domestic cost pressures, the Government added.