Dutch inflation rose to 11.6% in July, when calculated according to European methods, according to a preliminary calculation by national statistics agency CBS.

In June, the harmonised index stood at 9.9%. Unlike the Dutch method, the EU figures do not include the impact of rental housing, which is subject to tough price controls in the Netherlands.

The EU figure has been rising steadily since last June, but dipped slightly in April and May this year.

The regular figures, calculated in line with Dutch methodology, will be published on August 4. Inflation eased slightly to 8.6% in June.

The CBS also said the general economic picture in July was very similar to that of June, with consumer confidence falling a fraction to the lowest level ever. Industry, however, was more positive about the economic prospects that in June, and well above the long term average.