全球媒体聚焦 | 《金融时报》：美国关税政策对消费品价格的影响开始显现

Group 1 - The article highlights that despite a moderate rise in overall inflation in the U.S., the tariff policies of the Trump administration are beginning to push up consumer prices across various goods, from canned products to auto parts [1] - Official data and corporate statements indicate that as companies deplete inventories and pass on tariff costs to consumers, prices of trade-dependent goods are accelerating. For instance, audio equipment prices increased by 14%, women's clothing by 8%, and tools and hardware by 5% over the past six months [1] - The article notes that following Trump's announcement of "reciprocal tariffs" six months ago, retailers rushed to import goods before the tariffs took effect, while other companies raised prices on specific items to protect their profit margins [1] Group 2 - A report tracking imported goods reveals that since April, 11 out of 29 "softline products" (like T-shirts and shoes), 12 out of 18 "hardline products" (such as bicycles and dishwashers), and 5 out of 16 sports goods have seen price increases by retailers, indicating the impact of tariffs [3] - Ashley Furniture, the world's largest furniture manufacturer, announced price increases of 3.5% to 12% on most of its products starting October 5, with the CEO stating that the ongoing tariff situation poses significant cost challenges for the entire industry [3] - AutoZone's CEO mentioned that as the effects of tariffs become more apparent, price increases may be even larger, reflecting concerns across various sectors including food service, construction, and utilities regarding the impact of tariffs [3] Group 3 - According to Citigroup's global chief economist, currently, U.S. consumers bear 30% to 40% of the tariff costs, with about two-thirds absorbed by companies. However, it is predicted that in the coming months, the consumer burden will rise to 60%, indicating that consumers will face more impacts [4]