THE inflation In the US it increased less than it was foreseen in April amidst restrained clothing prices and new cars, suggesting that companies are not so urgent to take the highest duties so far.

The consumer price index, with the exception of the frequently volatile food and energy categories, increased by 0.2% since March, according to data from the Statistical Work Office published on Tuesday. Compared to April last year, structural inflation increased by 2.8%, unchanged compared to the previous month.

Total inflation increased by 0.2% and by 2.3% on a yearly basis.

Used cars, trucks and clothing fell. Food prices have been reduced for the first time for almost a year, including the highest fall since 1984 at egg prices.

The prices of the new cars remained unchanged, denying expectations for duty rise. However, prices of furniture and electrical appliances – goods imported to a large extent – increased sharply.

While Trump’s duties are widely expected to boost inflation, companies may still operate with a huge stock of accumulated stocks before resorting to prices. Many duties have withdrawn – including those for China after reaching a temporary agreement over the weekend – but US importers are still faced with the highest commercial costs and are afraid that they could be launched again when the pause ends.

Suspension of duties for 90 days – a move that reduced US duties from 145% to most Chinese imports to 30% – suggests that there could be milder price increases.

While all eyes were on the impact that customs duties on the prices of goods would have, one of the key factors in inflation in recent years has been housing costs – which is the largest category in services. Housing prices accelerated with a 0.3%increase, with rents.