Statistics Indonesia (BPS) announced on Thursday that October's inflation rate was 0.28 percent, bringing year-to-date (ytd) inflation to 2.22 percent, year-on-year (yoy) inflation to 3.16 percent and ended the last two months of deflation.

“The main factors behind the higher inflation was price increases for red chili, fuel and housing rent,” BPS head Suhariyanto said at a press conference.

BPS data show there was simultaneous inflation in three key categories: processed food and beverages and tobacco (0.27 percent); housing, utilities and fuel (0.42 percent) and clothing at 0.52 percent.

Suhariyanto said the 3.16 percent yoy inflation was within the target range of 2.5 to 4.5 percent for this year.

He warned, however, of possible price increases in the coming two months as people increased spending on goods and services ahead of and during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

“We still have two months left [in the year]. Hopefully, the government can prepare accordingly and keep inflation within the range,” he said.

BPS data also show core inflation was 0.29 percent in October and 2.94 percent yoy. (nor/bbn)