US imports turn costly in September, highest gain in four years: Labour Department report

US import prices increased more than expected in September, boosted by higher costs for energy products and a range of other goods, further evidence of rising inflation pressures as the West Asia war persists.

The report from the Labor Department on Friday followed data this week showing strong increases in consumer and producer prices last month, which left economists convinced that inflation was broadening beyond the energy sector.

The drawn-out US-Israeli war with Iran has snarled supply chains, and is keeping oil prices elevated. Economists have attributed rising inflation to President Donald Trump's policies, including tariffs on imports and the West Asia war.