Recent economic data reveal a troubling deceleration in growth, driven predominantly by persistent inflationary pressures and ongoing supply chain inefficiencies. Consumer prices have surged beyond initial forecasts, forcing households to tighten budgets as essentials become more expensive. Meanwhile, businesses grapple with inventory shortages and shipping delays, snarling production timelines and eroding profit margins. These factors combined have led to diminished consumer confidence and restrained spending, signaling a fragile outlook for the coming quarters.

Key sectors feeling the pinch include manufacturing, retail, and transportation, all critical to maintaining economic momentum. Notably, the disruptions are unevenly distributed, with smaller enterprises facing steeper challenges due to less buffer against rising costs. Stakeholders are calling for targeted policy interventions to stabilize prices and streamline supply…