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BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) \u2014 Argentina\u2019s inflation slowed in February for a second consecutive month, as right-wing President Javier Milei<\/a> continues to push austerity and deregulation measures in an effort to revive the country\u2019s struggling economy.<\/p>\n According to figures released Tuesday by the government\u2019s INDEC statistics agency, Argentina’s monthly inflation slowed down to 13.2% in February, compared to 20.6% in January and 25.5% in December. On a yearly basis, however, inflation remains the highest in three decades, topping 276.2% in February.<\/p>\n Government officials and analysts foresee a surge in prices in March due to a combination of increases in the price of energy, fuel, private education and medical services, among others.<\/p>\n Milei’s government said in a statement that February\u2019s inflation rate was the result of a \u201cstrong fiscal discipline.\u201d<\/p>\n A self-described anarcho-capitalist, Milei assumed power in December and almost immediately announced a series of shock measures<\/a>, including a 50% devaluation of the nation\u2019s currency in hopes of eventually bringing the country\u2019s roaring inflation under control.<\/p>\n As part of those measures, the government eliminated some state subsidies in energy and transport.<\/p>\n Milei has announced a painful adjustment plan aimed at staving off hyperinflation and warned that the measures would initially have a \u201cnegative impact on the level of activity, employment, real wages, and the number of poor and indigent people.\u201d<\/p>\n It is estimated that around 40% of the population live in poverty.<\/p>\n ____<\/p>\n Follow AP\u2019s coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https:\/\/apnews.com\/hub\/latin-america<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n