Flour prices soar, basic food staples continue slipping out of reach

KARACHI (Web Desk): Flour prices have increased in several major cities, further tightening household budgets as consumers struggle to afford one of the most basic food items.

Read also: Flour shortage and soaring prices hit Pakistan’s poor hardest

In Hyderabad, flour prices rose by Rs10 to Rs20 per kilogram, taking the price of a 20kg bag from Rs2,400 to Rs2,600. Chakki owners said the price of a 100kg wheat bag has increased by Rs1,300 to Rs1,500, leaving millers and retailers with limited options but to pass on the additional cost.

In Peshawar, the price of a 20kg flour bag has gone up by as much as Rs200 within a week, indicating growing pressure in local markets.

Sources in the Flour Mills Association said the non-release of government wheat has kept flour supply under stress across Punjab, with conditions worsening in South and Central Punjab. They warned that market shortages could intensify if timely measures are not taken.

According to the sources, official wheat releases remain largely restricted to Lahore, while 10kg flour bags are unavailable in several other cities. Flour mills have reportedly reduced or halted grinding operations, stating that it is not viable to sell flour at fixed rates when wheat is being procured at around Rs4,600 per maund.

Asim Raza, group leader of the Flour Mills Association, said flour supply is directly linked to the quantity of wheat issued by the government. He noted that wheat availability is lower than last year and prices are significantly higher, adding that flour prices may continue to rise unless supply issues are addressed through concrete steps.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Food Department dismissed reports of a shortage, stating that the province currently has 800,000 metric tons of wheat in stock. Officials maintained that a uniform flour price is applicable across Punjab.

According to the department, a 10kg flour bag is officially priced at Rs905, while a 20kg bag costs Rs1,810. Authorities said there has been no increase in official rates and assured that measures are in place to prevent unjustified price hikes.

Market observers say the growing gap between official rates and market prices highlights the need for effective supply management and timely intervention to ensure affordable access to essential food items.

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