Fashion
US import prices rise 1.3% in February; exports up 1.5%
The increase in import prices was driven by both fuel and nonfuel categories. Fuel import prices surged 3.8 per cent, led by higher petroleum and natural gas prices, although they remained 10.6 per cent lower year-on-year (YoY), US Bureau of Labor Statistics said in a press release.
US import and export prices rose sharply in February 2026, with imports up 1.3 per cent and exports 1.5 per cent, driven by fuel, industrial supplies and capital goods.
Non-agricultural exports and energy costs supported growth.
Regional price trends varied, while earlier shutdown disruptions affected data.
The increase reflects strong global demand alongside persistent cost pressures.
Meanwhile, nonfuel imports rose 1.1 per cent, supported by higher costs of capital goods, industrial supplies, and consumer goods, import prices increased by 1.3 per cent in February, following a 0.6 per cent rise in January, marking the steepest monthly gain since March 2022.
Rising prices in finished goods were particularly notable, with capital goods import prices jumping 1.3 per cent, the largest increase on record. Gains were also seen in consumer goods, including apparel, footwear and household products, reflecting steady consumer demand despite inflationary pressures.
On the export side, non-agricultural exports drove growth, increasing 1.7 per cent in February, while industrial supplies and materials surged 3.6 per cent. Higher prices for natural gas, and crude petroleum. Export prices increased 3.5 per cent YoY, indicating sustained global demand for US goods.
Trade dynamics varied across regions. Import prices from the European Union rose 0.6 per cent and from Canada 1.6 per cent, while prices from China edged up 0.5 per cent despite a 1.9 per cent annual decline. On the export front, prices to the European Union jumped 3.2 per cent, while shipments to Japan and Canada also recorded strong gains.
These price movements come at a time when global industry events, trade exhibitions, and policy discussions are influencing supply chains and pricing strategies. Rising costs of industrial inputs and energy are being closely monitored by businesses participating in key international platforms, where sourcing, pricing, and resilience remain central themes.
Additionally, earlier disruptions caused by the federal government shutdown between October and November 2025 have led to some suppressed data points, adding complexity to trend analysis.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)