Pakistan recorded a sharp rise in weekly inflation after a significant increase in fuel prices, with the inflation rate climbing 1.89 percent for the week and pushing the annual rate to 6.44 percent, according to a new report released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The weekly inflation report, issued in Islamabad, showed that prices of 14 essential commodities increased, while nine items recorded a decline during the week.
Fuel Prices Lead Inflation Surge
Fuel costs were the biggest driver of the spike in inflation.
According to the PBS data, petrol prices surged by 20.60 percent on a weekly basis, while diesel prices rose by 19.54 percent.
The price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) also witnessed a major increase, climbing 12.13 percent over the same period.
The sudden jump in fuel prices has placed additional financial pressure on households and businesses already coping with rising living costs.
Food Prices Also Increase
Alongside fuel, several essential food items also became more expensive during the week.
PBS data showed the following increases:
- Onion prices increased by 9.63 percent
- Flour prices rose by 1.28 percent
- Chicken became 0.66 percent more expensive
- Mash pulses increased by 0.55 percent
Other commodities including bananas, gram pulses, firewood, and fresh milk also recorded price increases.
Some Items Provide Slight Relief
Despite the overall upward trend, a few food items saw price reductions.
- Tomato prices declined by 3.66 percent
- Potatoes became cheaper by 2.86 percent
- Prices of garlic, rice, and masoor pulses also recorded minor decreases.
Fuel Price Increase Behind Inflation Spike
The latest inflation surge follows the government’s recent decision to significantly increase fuel prices.
Last week, the government announced a Rs55 per litre increase in petrol and diesel prices, citing rising global oil costs and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Officials said the adjustment was necessary to manage the economic impact of global energy market volatility.
The sharp rise in fuel costs is expected to have a wider impact on transport, food prices, and overall cost of living, raising concerns that inflation could continue to climb in the coming weeks.
