August, latest Government figures show.

But in some areas prices edged up -- including education, thanks largely to a rise in fees for private schooling locally and abroad.

Wine prices also rose 7.2 percent, while the cost of spirits and beer increased 2.6 and 1.5 percent respectively.

In contrast, the transport and vehicles sector saw a 0.7 percent decline during the month.

This stemmed from a drop in gasoline prices, airline ticket fares and the average cost of motorcycles.

The rent, clothing and footwear sector, meanwhile, saw a slight increase.

But there was no change in the sector covering food, health and personal care, household goods, services and supplies.