KARACHI – August 24, 2025: Food prices across Pakistan have recorded sharp increases as heavy rains, a weaker wheat harvest, and export activities tightened supply in domestic markets.
In Karachi, the price of tomatoes doubled to Rs200 per kilogram, while onions rose to Rs80. Green onions registered the highest jump, reaching nearly Rs600 per kilogram. Bottle gourd and apple gourd also became costlier at Rs150 per kilogram, compared with Rs80–100 earlier this month.
Pulses also saw major hikes, with wholesale prices ranging from Rs240 to Rs340 per kilogram, while retail buyers were charged between Rs280 and Rs420 per kilogram.
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Wheat and flour prices continued their upward trend despite the March harvest. A 10kg wheat bag now costs Rs660 in Karachi, while fine flour is priced at Rs95 per kilogram. The 20kg wheat bag rose to Rs1,500–1,800, compared with Rs1,350–1,700 earlier this month. National averages show a 20kg flour bag between Rs1,480 and Rs1,800, a 10kg bag at Rs709, and fine flour at Rs97.53 per kilogram.
This year’s wheat production was 23 million tonnes, falling short of the 27 million tonnes forecast, with around four million tonnes diverted to livestock and poultry feed. The shortfall, coupled with exports, has limited availability for human consumption, adding further pressure to domestic supplies.
Economists warn that the combined rise in vegetable, pulses, and flour prices could accelerate overall inflation in the coming weeks, increasing strain on household budgets nationwide.
