While it is difficult to disentangle these factors, the impact of (a) above, the import price rise, seems large and it eventually will fade away unless a further depreciation of the yen takes place.
Meanwhile, firms have provided high value-added goods and services, and higher sales prices have accompanied a sales increase in some items, as seen in the food and accommodations, eating & drinking services sectors. Looking ahead, nominal wages are likely to rise and the output gap is likely to improve in positive territory, which will help enhance the sustainability of a price rise.