41.   American auto makers, meanwhile, have continued raising prices.

42.   An attempt by the previous government to close the budget deficit by raising fuel prices aroused a public outcry and was withdrawn after just three days.

43.   Alumax Inc., an Atlanta-based aluminum producer, raised its prices last month for certain alloys amid signs of strong demand for aluminum products.

44.   Among the companies benefiting from cost cuts is Kellogg Co., while Quaker Oats Co. and Hershey Foods Corp. raised prices.

45.   An increase in either means companies are having trouble meeting demand -- and could raise prices, setting the stage for higher inflation.

46.   Analyst Marcon said Manpower may be able to raise prices in some markets where Adia and Ecco link up.

47.   Analysts said the companies would raise most of the damages payments by raising prices.

48.   Analysts said they also expect the government to pressure the oil companies not to raise prices immediately to limit the political fallout from the peso depreciation.

49.   Analysts speculate that in an increasingly competitive world, it is difficult for companies to raise their prices.

50.   Analysts were relieved that the government decided not to raise any prices, which might have driven inflation upward.