Punjab Deregulation Blamed for Wheat Price Spike
Wheat and flour prices have risen sharply across Pakistan, adding to concerns about household budgets and market stability. According to the Pakistan Flour Mills Association (PFMA), the price of wheat jumped by Rs300 per 40kg bag, climbing to Rs3,100 from Rs2,800.
PFMA Chairman Asim Raza criticized the government for failing to stabilize prices, pointing to Punjab’s deregulation of the wheat market as a key factor behind the surge.
He warned that if the situation continues unchecked, flour prices could increase further in the coming days, placing an additional burden on consumers already struggling with high food costs.
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The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported that flour prices have risen nationwide, with a 20kg bag now costing up to Rs1,800 in some areas.
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Sialkot saw the sharpest weekly hike, with an increase of Rs217 per bag. Significant jumps were also recorded in Lahore, Gujranwala, Multan, and Bannu, where prices went up by Rs200, while Bahawalpur experienced a rise of Rs193.
Rawalpindi and Islamabad saw increases of Rs187 and Rs173 respectively, while Sukkur and Quetta recorded more moderate gains. Analysts say the current price surge reflects supply chain issues, hoarding, and rising demand.
| City | Price (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Rawalpindi | 1,786.67 |
| Quetta | 1,690 |
| Hyderabad | 1,680 |
| Sialkot | 1,667 |
| Multan | 1,666.66 |
| Bahawalpur | 1,660 |
| Peshawar & Bannu | 1,650 |
| Gujranwala | 1,650 |
| Faisalabad & Sargodha | 1,640 |
| Lahore & Khuzdar | 1,600 |
| Sukkur | 1,560 |
| Larkana | 1,500 |
