Increase in Essential Kitchen Item Prices in Islamabad

A recent survey in Islamabad reveals that the prices of essential kitchen commodities have increased this past week, primarily due to the third consecutive rise in petrol and diesel costs.

Over the last month and a half, the government has augmented the price of High Speed Diesel (HSD), which is the primary fuel source for transportation via trains, trucks, buses, and trailers, by Rs29 per litre. Simultaneously, petrol prices, mainly used by private and smaller vehicles, have increased by Rs19 per litre. This surge in fuel costs has significantly contributed to the escalation of prices, as transportation expenses have risen by at least 10 percent. This has inflated the prices of both daily necessities and edible goods, ranging from vegetables and meat to eggs and fruits.

Price Fluctuations in Detail
  • Chicken: Prices rose from Rs16,000 to Rs16,400 per 40kg in the wholesale market. Retail prices are currently at Rs440 per kg, with chicken meat selling for Rs700 per kg.
  • Eggs: The price increased from Rs7,000 to Rs7,300 per carton of 30 dozen. In retail, eggs are being sold for Rs260-275 per dozen, up from Rs250-260 per dozen.
  • Sugar: The price decreased from Rs9,100 to Rs8,800 per 50kg bag in the wholesale market, but it is still being retailed at Rs190 per kg.
  • Wheat Flour: Prices have remained stable. The best quality wheat flour ex-mill price is Rs1,100 per 15kg bag, retailing at Rs1,150. Normal quality wheat flour is available at Rs1,000 per 15kg bag, with a retail price of Rs1,050 per bag.