LAHORE: Consumers across Pakistan are reeling under a fresh wave of inflation as vegetable prices have shot up dramatically, with tomatoes hitting a record Rs700 per kilogram in several parts of the country.
According to market reports, the sharp spike has turned tomatoes into one of the most expensive kitchen staples, even surpassing poultry prices in some cities.
In Karachi, tomato prices have climbed to unprecedented levels. Retailers in various localities are selling them between Rs500 and Rs700 per kg, far above the official rate of Rs322 set by the authorities.
In the Federal B Area, tomatoes are being sold at around Rs650 per kg, while in Gulshan-e-Iqbal and Burns Road, prices have touched the Rs700 mark.
The situation is no different in Sindh’s Sakrand tehsil of Shaheed Benazirabad district, where tomato prices have reached Rs600 per kg, the highest rate recorded this year. Locals say the soaring prices are adding to their already heavy cost-of-living burden.
In Faisalabad, consumers are also facing inflated prices, with tomatoes and peas being sold at Rs500 per kg, amid what residents describe as weak market monitoring by local authorities.
In Peshawar, most vegetables have seen steep increases. Tomatoes have crossed Rs400 per kg, while onions are being sold above Rs100 per kg. Prices of okra, bottle gourd, ridge gourd, and round gourd have all surged past Rs150 per kg, making basic food items increasingly unaffordable.
In Quetta, the situation is similarly grim, with tomatoes selling for Rs300 per kg and peas touching Rs400. Oter vegetables have also witnessed a steady price climb, adding to household expenses across the province.
The sudden escalation in vegetable prices has sparked frustration among citizens nationwide. Traders attribute the hike to supply disruptions, transportation costs, and seasonal shortages, while consumers continue to demand stricter price control measures from authorities to curb profiteering.
Read more: https://nayakashmir.com/govt-approves-national-wheat-policy-2025-26-to-protect-farmers-interests/
