Expectations for widespread price hikes following a wave of new tariffs this year have largely fallen short, surprising economists and fueling claims from tariff defenders that the levies are having no impact on inflation.

Energy and housing costs were the major drivers of inflation, but consumers are starting to feel the impact of tariffs on basic goods.

US consumer inflation picked up in line with analyst expectations last month, government data showed Tuesday, as policymakers try to gauge how President Donald Trump's ever-growing list of tariffs is affecting the economy.