Analysts: slowing inflation is positive, but food and services pose risks

January’s slowdown in inflation growth is a positive sign, but rising food and service prices could pose risks in the coming months, analysts told ČTK. Consumer prices rose 2.8% year-on-year, slightly above market expectations. Economist Radomír Jáč predicts annual inflation slightly above 2%, with some months dipping below that level. Food prices surged, with butter up 40.5%, chocolate 27.8%, and eggs 24.7% year-on-year. Analysts also warn of inflationary pressures from global trade policies, including potential economic impacts from U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist measures.