Inflation in Pakistan climbed to a 10-month high last week, largely fueled by supply disruptions caused by recent floods, according to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
Prices of 23 essential items recorded sharp increases, pushing up the weekly inflation rate by 1.29 percent and lifting the annual rate to 5.07 percent.
Sharp Rise in Food Staples
The cost of a 20-kilogramme bag of flour surged by Rs465 to reach an average of Rs2,294, with some markets selling it for as much as Rs2,500 — a rise of more than 25 percent within a week.
Tomatoes saw the steepest increase, soaring by 46 percent to an average of Rs205 per kilogramme, and hitting Rs300 in certain markets. Onion prices rose by 8.57 percent, surpassing Rs80 per kilogramme on average.
Broiler chicken also became significantly more expensive, reaching Rs540 per kilogramme. Other essentials including garlic, potatoes, moong lentils, bread, LPG, and clothing registered price hikes as well.
READ MORE: Floods Drive Food Prices Higher Across Lahore Markets
On the other hand, a handful of items offered some relief, with prices of bananas, sugar, and diesel falling slightly. PBS noted that four essential items declined in price, while 24 remained stable during the week.
The surge in food and household costs highlights the growing strain on consumers as flood-related supply chain disruptions continue to impact markets nationwide.
