The rising prices of essential commodities, particularly ghee and cooking oil, have added to the financial strain on both consumers and small traders, ARY News reported on Tuesday.
In November, the price of cooking oil surged from Rs. 530 to Rs. 560 per liter, marking a Rs. 30 increase, while ghee prices reached Rs. 550 per kilogram. The continuous inflation has left small food businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and street vendors, struggling to stay afloat.
Business owners have expressed concerns, stating that the soaring costs of these essential ingredients have significantly increased their operating expenses, making it difficult to maintain profitability. Many are witnessing a decline in sales as consumers, hit hard by inflation, are cutting back on spending.
The impact of rising prices is also being felt by households, where the escalating cost of basic necessities is further squeezing already tight budgets. Consumers have voiced frustration, criticizing the government for failing to provide relief amid the worsening economic situation.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) recorded a 0.28% increase in weekly inflation as of October 17. This upward trend in inflation continues to compound the financial difficulties faced by both businesses and consumers across the country.
