OTTAWA, May 18: Consumer prices in Canada rose to 2.0 per cent in the 12 months to April, led by near-record gasoline prices and higher costs of car purchases, a government agency said on Friday.

Prices of passenger vehicles went up 3.4 per cent while gasoline prices rose 3.3 per cent, Statistics Canada said in a statement. Car insurance also increased.

The agency noted that gasoline prices have been rising in recent months, pushing up to their highest level since July 2008. But the year-over-year increase in April was the smallest since September 2010.

Canadians also paid more for electricity, while natural gas prices declined, Statistics Canada said.

“April marks the first month since October 2009 in which energy prices increased at a slower rate than the all-items consumer price index,” it said.

Most food items cost more in April, notably for meat and cereal products.

Homeowners’ replacement cost and rents increased. Prices of furnishings and equipment, and communications services also rose.

As well, prices for clothing and footwear increased as new spring and summer apparels appeared in stores.—AFP