19 essential commodities see price surge in Pakistan

Islamabad: The prices of 19 essential commodities, including staples like potatoes, onions, tomatoes, eggs, milk, and curd, have seen a significant increase in Pakistan over the course of a week.

This surge in prices has contributed to an overall inflation rate of 37.07 percent, a record high that has raised alarm bells among consumers and policymakers alike.

The Federal Bureau of Statistics has released its weekly report on inflation, revealing a 0.11 percent increase in the inflation rate compared to the previous week.

The cumulative effect of this rise has resulted in the staggering 37.07 percent inflation rate, underscoring the challenges faced by consumers in the country.

Key findings from the report indicate that prices of several essential items have experienced notable hikes.

For instance, the price of sugar has surged by Rs1 per kilogram, while tomatoes have witnessed an even steeper increase of Rs11 per kilogram.

Additionally, the price of domestic cylinders has reached Rs3232.

The report further highlights that during the same week, the prices of onions, eggs, garlic, and potatoes have also climbed.

Meanwhile, increases have been observed in the prices of firewood, fresh milk, curd, mutton, and dry milk.

Despite these upward price trends, the statistics agency notes that some relief has been observed in the form of decreased prices for petroleum products, chicken, dal masoor, and dal chana.

Moreover, items like dal mash, flour, mustard oil, and ghee have become more affordable during the week.