Amid a spike in the price of key foods inflation increased by 0.22% in the second week of Ramadan
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) said that during the second week of Ramadan, the country’s inflation rate increased by 0.22%. Price increases for staple foods like sugar, tomatoes and live broiler chicken were the main cause of the hike which put more strain on already tight household budgets throughout the holy month.
Important Factors in the Increase of Inflation
At least twelve basic products saw a notable increase in price during the week ending March 13, according to PBS. Those most impacted include:
- The average price of live broiler chicken increased by Rs. 31 per kg, to Rs. 510 per kg.
- Tomatoes: The average cost is now Rs. 80 per kg after prices increased by Rs. 22 per kg.
- The average price of sugar increased by Rs. 9 per kg reaching Rs. 172 per kg.
- Prices for domestic LPG cylinders increased by Rs. 46, and they currently average Rs. 3,262 per cylinder.
Middle- and lower-income households, who already face high food and energy expenditures during Ramadan—a period when food consumption typically rises—should be especially concerned about these rising costs.
Annual Inflation Is a Little Better
Remarkably, annual inflation for the same week decreased by 1.97% in spite of the weekly increase. Seasonal demand spikes and the erratic nature of commodity prices are reflected in this mixed trend.
Some Price Relief
PBS announced a price reduction for 15 key goods, providing some relief to consumers, despite price increases for a number of food items:
- Onions: Now average Rs. 70 per kg, down Rs. 14 per kg.
- Potatoes: 5 rupees per kilogram.
- Garlic: The price per kg reduced by Rs. 36.
- The price per kilogram of gram and mashed lentils decreased by Rs. 6 and Rs. 2, respectively.
Furthermore, despite the seasonal pressures, prices for 24 necessities stayed consistent, suggesting some degree of market stability.
Government Surveillance and Consumer Issues
The PBS keeps a careful eye on inflation trends particularly during Ramadan when it’s even more important to make sure everyday necessities are affordable. Public annoyance is still high nevertheless as many people express worry about the growing prices of staple foods.
Concluding remarks
The necessity for more price control and market supervision is highlighted by the way inflation rises throughout the holy month. Although it is anticipated that the government will continue to provide relief initiatives like subsidies and Ramadan bazaars making sure they are accessible and efficient is still crucial to shielding customers from additional financial strain.
