"The Consumer Price Index (CPI) experienced 0.08 percent (mtm) deflation in February 2019, upending the 0.32 percent (mtm) inflation recorded in the previous period," BI communications director Agusman said in a statement received here on Monday.
The main contributors to CPI deflation in the reporting period were deflation of volatile foods (VF), along with lower inflationary pressures on administered prices (AP).
Annually, CPI inflation decreased to 2.57 percent (yoy) from 2.82 percent (yoy) the month earlier.
Moving forward, Bank Indonesia (BI) will consistently maintain price stability and strengthen policy coordination with the Central Government and Regional Administrations to ensure low and stable inflation within the prevailing target range of 3.5+1 percent.
The prices of volatile foods are decreasing in 2019. Volatile foods experienced 1.30 percent (mtm) deflation in February 2019, reversing the 0.97 percent (mtm) inflation recorded the month earlier.
VF deflation is in accordance with seasonal trends, yet the rate is deeper than the 0.66 percent (mtm) average posted in February over the past four years.
Lower prices of red chilies, purebred chicken meat and eggs, shallots, bird?s eye chilies, and carrots suppressed volatile food prices, while price pressures on rice, garlic, and instant noodles were mild.
Annually, therefore, VF inflation was recorded at 0.33 percent (yoy) in the reporting period, down from 1.76 percent (yoy) the month earlier.
Core inflation has trended lower, thereby controlling CPI inflation within the target corridor. Core inflation was recorded at 0.26 percent (mtm) in February 2019, decreasing from 0.30 percent (mtm) the month earlier.
The main contributors to lower core inflation include house rentals, rice with a side dish, gold jewelry, motor vehicles, and domestic workers? wages.
Annually, core inflation remains stable compared with conditions in the previous month, namely at 3.06 percent (yoy).
Core inflation is under control thanks to policy consistency by BI to establish rational inflation expectations, while ensuring the rupiah moves in line with the currency?s fundamental value.
Reporter: Azis Kurmala
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
