The weekly inflation rate in Pakistan has increased by 4.07%, according to the latest report issued by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
On a yearly basis, the inflation rate now stands at 2.22%.
The report states that during the week ending July 24, prices of 14 items increased, 12 items became cheaper, while the prices of 25 items remained unchanged.
Key highlights from the report include:
- Gas charges rose by Rs. 590 per MMBTU for the first quarter.
- Electricity rates also increased by Rs. 1 per unit, rising from Rs. 4.66 to Rs. 5.66 per unit.
In terms of essential food items:
- Tomato prices rose by Rs. 19 per kg.
- Eggs saw an increase of over Rs. 11.
- Prices also went up for yogurt, fresh milk, rice, lentils (masoor), and beef.
However, some relief was observed:
- Live chicken became Rs. 36 cheaper.
- Sugar dropped by Rs. 8 per kg, and onions also saw a price decrease.
- A 20 kg flour bag became over Rs. 17 cheaper.
- Prices of domestic LPG cylinders, potatoes, moong and chana lentils, and bananas also declined.
The report reflects a mixed trend in the prices of daily-use items, with essential utilities contributing significantly to the overall rise in inflation.