The primary driver of the annual inflation rate was the fluctuation in food and non-alcoholic beverage prices, the National Statistics Office (GeoStat) reported.

Overall, prices within this category increased by 8.8 per cent, contributing 2.98 percentage points to the annual inflation rate. Notably, fish prices soared by 18.4 per cent, while fruits and grapes rose by 15.0 per cent.

Bread and bakery products saw a 14.3% increase, and coffee, tea, and cocoa prices went up by 10.1%. Oil and fats became 10.1% more expensive, sugar, jam, and other sweets climbed by 8.2%, and meat and meat products rose by 7.6%. Milk, cheese, and eggs increased by 7.0%.

Additionally, mineral and spring waters, non-alcoholic beverages, and natural juices saw a 6.1 per cent rise, while vegetables and garden produce remained relatively stable with a marginal increase of 0.1 per cent.

In the healthcare sector, prices grew by 7.0%, adding 0.56 percentage points to the annual inflation rate.

Specifically, outpatient medical services increased by 9.1%, hospital services by 9.0%, and medical products, equipment, and devices by 5.3%.

Prices for alcoholic beverages and tobacco rose by 4.4 per cent overall, contributing 0.28 percentage points to the annual index. Both tobacco products and alcoholic drinks saw increases, with tobacco prices up by 7.3 per cent and alcoholic beverages by 1.3 per cent.