Fuel, Living Costs Rise in Germany

Fear of war in Iraq and strikes by oil workers in Venezuela have led to increases in Germany's oil prices and inflation rate. Higher taxes have also contributed to higher living costs across the country. According to figures published by Germany's Federal Statistical Office, oil prices rose in several German states by between 0.8 to 1.2 percent in January. In some regions, prices for gasoline and fuel oil soared by as much as 6 percent. Prices of imported goods rose by 0.9 percent between November and December. The inflation rate rose 0.9 percent during the same period.