The prices of not only luxury items but basic items as well recorded an increase last month with inflation rates sitting at 5.5 percent compared to 2.6 percent for the same period last year.

Food items like wheat products, fresh and preserved meat, fruit, tea, and dairy products were seen to increase by 3.6 percent. Education and medical fees also increased by 0.4 percent.

Meanwhile, the Consumer Council of Fiji is calling for counter inflation measures. Chief Executive Officer Premila Kumar said the prices of basic food items are costing more for ordinary families despite the government's initiative to reduce the price hike.