The price of consumer goods including computers, electrical machinery and transport equipment could surge this year as a result of soaring shipping costs, an industry body has said, adding that “cracks [are] forming in the global trading system”. The average spot shipping rate between Asia and the US west coast has soared. Photograph: Mike Blake/ReutersThese price rises and continued volatility are fuelling expectations of more inflationary pressure for consumers during 2026. The average spot shipping rate between Asia and the US west coast jumped by nearly 30% between late December and early January. US tariffs and protectionist policies were highlighted as important causes of price volatility by those surveyed, who said they were directly being affected by shifting trade rules and China-US tensions.

Source: The Guardian February 02, 2026 01:49 UTC