Mexico: Grupo Modelo SA, Mexico's largest beer-maker, half-owned by Anheuser Busch Cos. Inc., said it will raise prices on its domestic market beginning February 23 to match the country's inflation rate this year.

Modelo, which makes Corona beer, said in a statement to the Mexican stock exchange, that it will vary the increases by region, beer brand and type of can or bottle.

Mexican inflation will be 4 % in 2005, according to a central bank survey of 33 economists in January. Last year, consumer prices increased by 5.2%.

26 February, 2005