The U.S. Department of Labor published official data showing a significant increase in inflation levels over the past month. The annual inflation rate reached 2.7%, representing an increase from the previous period of 2.4%.
The main factors for this jump are complex, but leading are the increased costs of energy and housing. Experts from the financial sector are noting the first symptoms of economic tension, directly related to trade restrictions introduced by the administration.
The specific data reveals drastic price changes in various consumer categories. For example, coffee prices rose by 2.2%, citrus fruits increased by 2.3%, toys increased by 1.8%, and household appliances went up by an impressive 1.9%.
Olu Sonola, a specialist from Fitch Ratings, defined the current situation as an initial stage of inflationary pressure, which is expected to deepen in the coming months.
President Trump introduced a 10% tax on imported goods, affecting key economic sectors such as steel and automotive manufacturing. Although some more aggressive plans were temporarily suspended, there are indications of future increases in customs duties.
The official position of the White House is that these measures will protect American businesses from foreign competition and stimulate domestic production. They categorically reject forecasts of increased end consumer prices.
Economic analysts, however, have a different perspective. Most experts believe that previous economic stability is due to companies' pre-emptive stockpiling of goods.
Ryan Sweet, chief economist at Oxford Economics, emphasized that the current statistical data is too preliminary to draw final conclusions about the long-term effects of trade policy.
Regardless of different interpretations, market indicators show that the introduced tariffs are already having a tangible impact on consumer prices across various economic sectors.
The upcoming months will be critical for understanding the full effect of the administration's economic strategy and its impact on the American economy.