In addition, we must keep a watchful eye on the negotiations on the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (EU) and geopolitical risks related to North Korea and the Middle East. All these risk factors could significantly affect Japan; therefore, while continuing to pay due attention to them, the Bank will closely examine developments at home and abroad. II. Prices A.
Current Situation Next, I will turn to price developments. The year-on-year rate of change in the consumer price index (CPI) for all items less fresh food for April, which was released on May 18, 2018, was 0.7 percent. The rise in energy prices has contributed considerably to the increase in the CPI.