ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Pakistan’s short-term inflation increased by 0.46 percent during the week under review, taking the overall annual inflation rate to 15.28pc, according to the latest figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The weekly report showed that prices of 25 essential commodities rose over the previous week, while 11 items became cheaper and the prices of 15 goods remained unchanged.
Among the major increases, tomato prices recorded the sharpest rise, climbing 16.65pc during the week. Potato prices rose by 6.82pc, while chicken became 5.60pc more expensive.
The PBS data also showed a 1.16pc increase in the price of washing soap. Prices of several other commonly used items, including milk, yoghurt, mutton and eggs, also moved upward. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices increased by 0.51pc during the week.
On the other hand, some food items registered declines. Onion prices fell by 2.98pc, garlic became 2.51pc cheaper and banana prices declined by 1.28pc.
Fuel prices also eased slightly, with diesel prices dropping by 1.06pc and petrol prices declining by 0.52pc. Prices of pulses and wheat flour also registered decreases, providing limited relief to consumers.
The latest figures highlight persistent pressure on household budgets despite moderation in some commodity prices. Rising costs of vegetables, poultry and dairy products continue to contribute to the increase in the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), which measures weekly inflation based on essential consumer goods.
Economists say fluctuations in food prices remain one of the key drivers of short-term inflation, particularly affecting lower- and middle-income households. They note that while lower fuel and flour prices offer some relief, increases in perishable food items can quickly offset those gains.