Prices deflated in Nov-ember for a second month, this time by 0.2 per cent calculated on a 4.4 point drop in the Consumer Price Index, the Statistical Institute of Jamaica is reporting.

In October, price movements dipped by 0.1 per cent. The November outturn puts the calendar year to date inflation at 5.2 per cent, compared to 12.8 per cent in 2005.

For the fiscal year to date (April to November), inflation is at 5.1 per cent.

There were dips in the regional indices: Kingston by 0.2 per cent, rural areas by 0.3 per cent. The all town's index was flat.

In the category of 'food and drink', prices fell 0.2 per cent, largely due to a fall in prices for starchy foods of 5.1 per cent, enough to erode the near one per cent increases in the sub-categories of dairy products, meat, meals away from home, baked products, and other foods.

The category of health care and personal expenses also rose by 0.5 per cent, and fuels and household supplies 0.6 per cent.

The CPI for November was 2413.5, compared to 2417.9 recorded for October.