London: The annual inflation rate increased to 3.3% in the UK in March, up from 3% in February, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) stated on Wednesday.

According to Anadolu Agency, energy prices were the main reason for the higher inflation in the month. The press release indicated that the average price of petrol reached its highest level since August 2024. Prices in the transport division rose overall by 4.7% in the 12 months to March, an increase from 2.4% in February. "The latest annual rate was the highest recorded since December 2022," the ONS reported.

Housing and household services experienced an increase of 4.3% in March, rising slightly from 4.2% in February. Food and non-alcoholic beverage prices also saw a rise, with a 3.7% increase in March, up from 3.3% in February. On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose by 0.7% in March, compared to a 0.3% increase in February.