BERLIN, (Reuters) – The rising energy costs caused a rise in German import prices. This was the highest increase since September 1974.

The increase was largely due to rising prices of intermediate goods, including metals, plastics, and nitrogen compounds. This is in contrast with the 32% expected rise.

Import prices increased 1.8% in April compared to March, versus expectations for 2%.

Export prices in April rose 16% year over year and were 0.8% more than March.