Taiwan’s central bank says rising oil prices driven by tensions in the Middle East could push inflation higher this year.
Central Bank Governor Yang Jin-long said his bank has already revised Taiwan’s consumer price index growth to 1.8- percent.
If oil prices rise further to 100 U.S. dollars per barrel, inflation could edge up to around 1.9 -percent.
During today's trading, oil prices hovered around 108 U.S. dollars a barrel.
Responding to lawmakers' questions, Yang also said any spike between 95 and 115 dollars is likely temporary.
Asked if it could lead to interest rate hikes, Yang said tightening monetary policy, including rate increases, remains an option if inflation expectations take hold.
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