The costs of living in Bulgaria for the first quarter of 2007 increased by one per cent, the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria (CITB) said.

CITB said that having in mind the expectations for a price increase of energy resources, the cost of living will probably further go up by the end of the year.

Coal and fuels gained in value between four and five per cent, Focus news agency reported.

The costs of living per capita of a four-member households in the end of March reached 387.95 leva or 1552 leva per household.

The price dynamics within the food industry is influenced mainly by the seasonal offering and the prices on international markets.

High prices of fresh vegetables are typical for the season. Rice prices went up by 18.6 per cent, flour by 20 per cent and bread by 13 per cent on annual basis.

Meat prices have already reached utmost levels and could hardly become higher having in mind current prices on European markets.

Expenditure on accommodation went up by 13.3 per cent and heating and energy became 11.6 per cent more expensive.

Services gained in value more than goods did.