Pakistan recorded a 0.22 percent rise in weekly inflation, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported on Friday. This increase pushed the annual inflation rate to 5.03 percent. Analysts said rising food and energy prices continue to drive inflation, affecting household budgets across the country.
During the week, 20 essential items became more expensive, six items saw price drops, and 25 items remained stable. These changes show mixed trends but highlight increasing costs for daily necessities. Consumers continue to feel the impact of rising food and energy expenses.
Read more: Weekly inflation up by 0.49%
Onions led price hikes, rising 5.62 percent, followed by energy savers at 2.51 percent and eggs at 2.38 percent. Sugar prices also increased by 2.04 percent. Cooking oil, garlic, and beef became more expensive, further pressuring families’ grocery bills.
Tomato prices increased by 92 paisa per kilogram, reaching an average of Rs 329.45. In some markets, tomatoes cost as much as Rs 400 per kilogram. The report linked higher tomato prices to supply shortages and increased demand.
Read more: “Pakistan’s Economic Success: Inflation Drops, Growth Projections Remain Positive Amid Challenges”
Meanwhile, some items became cheaper. Chicken fell 2.51 percent, rice 1.19 percent, and lentils, flour, and LPG also saw small declines. Analysts said these decreases provide limited relief to consumers but do not offset overall inflation trends.