THE HAGUE, Aug. 31 (Xinhua) -- Inflation in the Netherlands hit a new high of 13.6 percent in August, compared to 11.6 percent in July, according to preliminary figures released by the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) on Wednesday.
The figures were compiled by following the European consumer price index or HICP, which is harmonized across eurozone countries. The regular Dutch inflation rate will be announced on September 6.
For most part, the price increase is due to higher energy prices, such as electricity, gas and district heating.
Higher energy costs are also driving up food prices. Food, drink, and tobacco were almost 11 percent more expensive in August than in the same month last year.
In July, inflation in the Netherlands exceeded the 10 percent mark for the first time for the past almost 50 years. Consumer goods and services in July were 10.3 percent more expensive than in the same month one year earlier. ■
