Economy ministry: External factors blamed for Belarus inflation

Inflation -- higher than forecasted -- has been caused by external factors, the official news agency Belta reports the statement from the Ministry of Economy on Belarus's economic performance in January-August 2008. Soaring world prices for energy resources, raw materials and food have contributed to higher costs and tariffs at the domestic market, the Ministry of Economy said. The government took measures to protect economy's real sector and to avoid unsanctioned foodstuff exports from the country.