According to preliminary data from Statistics Finland, the year-on-year change in the harmonized consumer price index was recorded at 1.8% in February, up from a steady 1% in January. This increase indicates a rising trend in consumer prices, reflecting various pressures in the economy. One of the most significant contributors to this increase was the category of furniture, household appliances, and routine household maintenance, which saw a remarkable annual increase of 4%. Additionally, the prices of alcohol and tobacco also rose by 3.7%, mirroring broader inflation trends that impact essential goods.