CPI rose 1.7% in Aug -- same as July's rate

The city's Consumer Price Index for August rose by 1.7% year-on-year, on par with the growth rate in July.

Netting out the effects of the government's one-off relief measures, the underlying inflation rate in August stood at 1.9%, also the same as that in July.\

The largest hikes were seen in electricity, gas and water, which surged 11.5%.

Miscellaneous services, up 4.7%. Transport rose 3.9% while housing, meals out and takeaway food also saw increases.

Basic food prices fell by 0.2% year-on-year, while tobacco, alcohol, and clothing and footwear remained unchanged.

A government spokesperson says although inflation in fuel-related components remains elevated, price pressures on other major components "remain largely contained," keeping overall inflation moderate.

Looking ahead, inflationary pressure will continue to rise amid elevated oil prices with renewed tensions in the Middle East warranting close attention.