5 Apr 2007

American Samoa sees inflation rise in first quarter of 2007

10:35 am on 5 April 2007

Inflation in American Samoa for the first quarter of 2007 was 1.8% higher, compared to the fourth quarter of 2006.

The January to March consumer price index just released by the Department of Commerce measured inflation at 2.1%.

Inflation for the last quarter was 0.3%.

The biggest increase was in the transportation group which recorded a 4.5% hike due to higher gasoline prices.

The food group recorded an increase of 1.3% due to higher prices of meat, fish, fruits and vegetables and other prepared foods.

The alcohol and tobacco group was up 1.1% due to increases cost of beer and cigarettes.

The only group which recorded a drop was housing which decreased 2.5% .