The rapid pace of economic expansion has continued, fuelled by robust investment and private consumption. The labour market has tightened further, leading to double-digit wage increases. This, combined with soaring fuel and food prices, hikes in regulated tariffs and general excess-demand pressures, has pushed the inflation rate well above the central bank’s target. With enormous real income gains, the economy should continue to expand above potential rates for some time, resulting in a widening current account deficit.