Pakistan has recorded a sharp rise in weekly inflation, reaching 1.89 percent, pushing the annual inflation rate to 6.44 percent. The data was released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) and reported by ARY News on Friday.
The weekly inflation report highlighted significant price increases in essential commodities. Fuel prices were the main contributor, with petrol rising by 20.60 percent and diesel increasing by 19.54 percent. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices also climbed by 12.13 percent over the week.
Food items also contributed to the rise in weekly inflation. Onion prices surged by 9.63 percent, flour increased by 1.28 percent, and chicken prices went up by 0.66 percent. Mash pulses recorded a 0.55 percent increase, while bananas, firewood, gram pulses, and fresh milk also saw price hikes.
Despite the overall increase, some commodities offered slight relief. Tomato prices fell by 3.66 percent, and potatoes became cheaper by 2.86 percent. Garlic, rice, and masoor pulses also recorded small declines in price.
The recent spike in weekly inflation follows a government announcement last Friday to raise petrol prices. Federal ministers stated that petrol and diesel prices would increase by Rs. 55 per litre, citing rising global oil costs and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Analysts warned that further increases in fuel prices could continue to affect weekly inflation, as transportation and production costs rise, impacting a wide range of essential goods. Consumers are expected to feel pressure on household budgets if energy and food prices remain high.
The PBS report reflects the volatile nature of weekly inflation, showing how changes in global fuel prices directly affect domestic markets. Authorities continue to monitor price trends while considering measures to provide relief to consumers facing rising costs.
This week’s report underscores the need for careful management of energy prices and essential commodities to control future weekly inflation and stabilize the economy.
The rise in weekly inflation is the highest recorded in recent weeks, signaling challenges for policymakers and consumers alike.
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