Inflation in Pakistan saw a 0.22% increase during the second week of Ramadan, with the prices of 12 essential items, including live broiler chicken, tomatoes, and sugar, rising notably. The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported a year-on-year inflation decline of 1.97% for the week ending March 13, offering some relief in comparison to the previous year.
Tomato prices surged by Rs22 per kg, reaching an average of Rs80 per kg, while live broiler chicken became Rs31 more expensive, now averaging Rs510 per kg. Sugar prices also saw an increase of Rs9 per kg, with an average price of Rs172 per kg. Additionally, the cost of LPG domestic cylinders rose by Rs46, reaching an average of Rs3,262.
Also Read: Weekly Inflation Records a Modest Decline
Despite these increases, PBS reported that 15 essential items experienced price drops, while 24 remained stable. Onions became Rs14 cheaper, with a new price of Rs70 per kg, and potato prices decreased by Rs5 per kg. Garlic saw a significant reduction of Rs36 per kg, while gram and mash lentils became Rs6 and Rs2 cheaper per kg, respectively.
The PBS continues to monitor inflation trends closely as they impact household budgets during the holy month of Ramadan.
