Inflation eased to a four-year low in April as the nascent impact of President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs were offset by their cost-dampening effects in a slowing economy. Overall consumer prices increased 2.

U.S. consumer prices rebounded moderately in April as declining food costs partially offset rising rents, leading to the smallest annual increase in four years, but the inflation outlook remains unclear against the backdrop of tariffs.

Recent inflation data point to continued progress toward meeting the U.S. Federal Reserve's 2% inflation goal, but the outlook is now uncertain due to the possibility new import taxes will drive prices higher,

Inflation could rise this summer as tariffs are reflected in the data, forecasters say. The US tariff rate is high even after the latest deal with China.

Federal Reserve Vice Chair Philip Jefferson said tariffs and related uncertainty could slow growth and boost inflation this year, but monetary policy is well positioned to respond as needed.