While some typically frequent purchases cost more in the fourth quarter of 2023 in Guam, some products have dropped in cost, according to the Guam Bureau of Statistics and Plans.
On average, the Food category is 3% higher than a year ago. Bakery products rose 10.5% from fourth quarter 2022, beef rose 3.4% and pork 6.4%; fish and seafood rose 9.1%. Poultry dropped 7.3%, and eggs dropped 6%.
“Meals away from home” increased 2.8%. Electricity dropped 6.1% compared to fourth quarter 2002, while water, sewer and trash costs rose 5.6%.
Tools, hardware and equipment rose 16.5%, and housekeeping supplies 19.1%. Women’s apparel rose 13.1%, while men’s apparel rose 2.9%. Footwear rose 4.2%.
For more details, see www.bsp.guam.gov/CPI mbj