Inflation in Pakistan experienced a modest weekly decline of 0.56 percent, as per the latest figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). However, the broader annual inflation trend continues to reveal significant price pressures across essential goods.
The weekly inflation report highlighted a mixed pattern, with prices of 22 essential items rising, while 10 others saw reductions. This indicates short-term fluctuations amid ongoing inflationary challenges.
Among the notable price increases, onions surged by 28.16 percent and potatoes by 21.91 percent within the week. Tomatoes prices climbed 9.56 percent, and bananas rose by 1.20 percent. Additionally, vegetable ghee prices went up by 0.91 percent, fresh milk by 0.61 percent, and wheat flour by 0.59 percent. Other items such as soap, yogurt, and cigarettes also experienced price hikes during this period.
Meanwhile, some relief was observed in select food and fuel categories. Chicken prices dropped by 9.48 percent, and garlic became cheaper by 9.13 percent over the week. Fuel prices also eased, with diesel falling by 7.01 percent and petrol by 6.80 percent. Minor declines were recorded in gram pulse and moong dal prices, which decreased by 0.38 percent and 0.34 percent respectively. Mustard oil, lentils, beef, and firewood also saw price reductions.
Despite these short-term improvements, annual inflation remains sharply elevated in key sectors. Onion prices have more than doubled, increasing by 100.68 percent compared to last year, while wheat flour prices rose by 59.88 percent. Energy costs have also surged, with electricity prices up 59.40 percent annually. LPG prices increased by 57.09 percent, and petrol costs rose by 50.60 percent, PBS data.
In a significant development, these figures underscore ongoing volatility in essential commodity prices. Although some weekly relief is evident, it has not been sufficient to counterbalance the sustained high inflation affecting food and energy sectors over the year.
