The National Bank of Moldova (NBM) has cut its inflation forecast for 2013 from 4.8% to 4.4%, at the same time maintaining the forecast for this year at 4.9%, Info-Prim Neo reports. Throughout the entire period of 2012-2013 the annual rate of inflation is expected to stay within the target corridor of 5% with a margin of 1.5 percentage point. Commenting on the forecast for this year at a Thursday news conference, NBM Governor Dorin Dragutanu attributed the cut to a moderation of food prices as a result of reduced demand on global markets. However, he also anticipated a rise in regulated prices, such as urban transport fares, electricity, gas and heat rates. Among the mid-short deflation risks Dragutanu mentioned those coming from the outside, in particular those caused by tribulations in the euro zone. Inflation risks include a potential deterioration of the geopolitical situation which could trigger a hike in international oil prices.