Consumer prices surged 21.8% year-on-year in October, following a 22.5% increase in the prior month.

The overall strong inflation was largely driven by a 46.9% jump in housing costs, led by increased prices for heat energy, solid fuels, natural gas, and electricity.

Prices for food and non-alcoholic beverages alone grew 29.5%, and transport charges were 20.1% more expensive compared to last year, linked to higher fuel prices.

On a monthly basis, consumer prices moved up 0.8% in October.