Inflationary pressures refer to economic conditions that are likely to cause an increase in prices for goods and services. This can be due to a variety of factors, including increased demand, higher production costs or decreased supply. When inflationary pressures occur, the purchasing power of money tends to decrease over time as it takes more money to buy the same items. Central banks often monitor inflationary pressures closely and may take actions such as raising interest rates in an effort to control price increases and maintain stability in the economy.