Wheat and flour prices surge in Karachi, hitting Rs. 90 per kg and raising inflation fears, stakeholders dispute government stock claims, warning prices may exceed Rs.200 per kg.
Wheat and flour prices in Karachi have soared, raising fresh concerns about food inflation. Wholesale wheat has jumped to Rs. 90 per kg from Rs. 72 in mid-August and Rs. 62 in July. As a result, flour No. 2.5 is now priced at Rs. 97 per kg, while fine flour has reached Rs. 103 per kg, up from Rs. 81 and Rs. 85, respectively. Chakki flour varieties are selling at wholesale rates between Rs. 110 and Rs. 135 per kg, reflecting an average rise of Rs. 20 per kg. A 10 kg wheat bag now costs Rs. 794 (up from Rs. 640), while 20 kg bags are priced between Rs. 1,700 and Rs. 2,100, according to a report by Dawn.
Despite the government’s claim of having 33.47 million tonnes of wheat against a requirement of 33.58 million tonnes, market stakeholders disagree, saying the actual crop is closer to 28–30 million tonnes, with 3–4 million tonnes already diverted for animal feed. Critics argue that ending wheat procurement and removing the support price has led to hoarding and speculation, benefiting flour millers but hurting consumers. The absence of official mill quotas has further destabilized the market.
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With the next wheat crop expected in March/April 2026, stakeholders warn that prices may exceed Rs 200 per kg if hoarding is not controlled. Although current wheat prices are still 43% below their peak, analysts believe the recent rebound could improve farmer sentiment for the upcoming Rabi season. However, with wheat production already down 9% and farmers facing heavy losses this year, experts stress the need for urgent government intervention and stronger market regulation.
