Factory gate prices rose by 2.6 per cent in the year to the end of March, as monthly prices were static.

The annual rate of increase picked up pace slightly compared with February figures, when prices were 2.3 per cent higher.

The annual change was influenced by a 6.8 per cent rise in the meat products sector, and a 6.1 per cent increase in computer and electronic products. Food products were 4.7 per cent higher year on year.

The increases were offset in part by a 2.1 per cent decline in electrical equipment, while basic pharmaceutical products suffered a 0.7 per cent decline.

Monthly figures saw a 1.7 per cent rise in grain milling, starches and animal feeds, while computer products showed a marginal increase of 0.2 per cent. Fish products fell by 1.6 per cent compared with February, and dairy products were down by 1 per cent.

The price of energy products rose by 2.9 per cent over the year, with petroleum fuels rising by 7.7 per cent. On a monthly basis, the rise was 0.9 per cent and 2.3 per cent respectively.

Over the month, the price index for export sales was unchanged, and the index for home sales rose by 0.3 per cent.

On an annual basis, the price index for export sales was 2.4 per cent higher, with the home sales index recording a rise of 3 per cent.