Walmart Announces Price Cuts on Groceries; Trump Claims Credit

Walmart, the largest retail chain in the United States, has announced price reductions on a range of everyday products, including beef, as part of its summer savings campaign. Shortly after the announcement, President Donald Trump claimed the move was the result of requests from his administration.

In a statement released on Monday, Walmart said it was lowering prices on selected items for the summer season. The announcement, however, made no reference to President Trump or his administration.

Later, Trump wrote on social media: "I have just learned that Walmart, one of the biggest, best and smartest retailers in the United States, is substantially lowering prices at my administration's request to help celebrate our country's 250th anniversary."

Walmart's statement had already been published on the company's website before Trump's post.

Julie Barber, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchant of Walmart U.S., said the company was introducing seasonal price reductions to help customers save during the summer months.

The discounts will cover a wide range of products, including fresh fruits, beverages, beef, swimming pools, toys, barbecue grills and summer apparel.

"Whether customers are preparing for backyard barbecues, planning vacations or shopping for weekly essentials, we want to help them save more," Barber said.

Meanwhile, several other U.S. supermarket chains are also planning price reductions on selected products as competition for consumers intensifies.

Last month, executives at grocery retailer Kroger told investors that the company was testing targeted discounts on certain products to encourage higher consumer spending and boost sales.