Inflation slowed more than expected in February and cooled for the first time in four months, but that progress may be short lived as President Donald Trump ramps up his trade war, which threatens to increase prices for Americans.

The latest snapshot of ongoing inflation comes amid a new wave of tariffs of 25 percent on steel and aluminum imports, which economists say could raise prices and weigh down the e

U.S. consumer prices increased moderately in February as higher shelter costs were partially offset by cheaper airline fares, giving the Federal Reserve room to keep interest rates unchanged next week while monitoring the economic impact of a trade war.

The rate of price increases on U.S. consumer goods and services dropped bit in February but are now likely headed the other way because of President Donald Trump's trade levies.

Consumer prices in February were up 2.8% from a year ago. That's a smaller annual increase than the previous month. But the president's trade war could put more upward pressure on prices.

U.S. consumer prices increased less than expected in February, but the improvement is likely temporary against the backdrop of aggressive tariffs on imports that are expected to raise the costs of most goods in the months ahead.

US inflation came in at 2.8 per cent last month from a year ago, down from 3.0 per cent in January. While easing inflation is a relief for policymakers, the latest reading is just the lowest since lat