Declining Prices of Essential Kitchen Items in Pakistan

In recent weeks, the prices of essential kitchen items in Pakistan have shown a notable decline, providing some relief to consumers who have been grappling with rising costs. A survey conducted this week has revealed that many staple goods are becoming more affordable, which is a welcome change in the current economic climate.

The survey indicates that the wholesale price of sugar remains stable at Rs6,100 for a 50kg bag, while retail prices hover between Rs135 and Rs140 per kilogram. However, chicken prices have seen a slight increase, rising from Rs14,000 to Rs14,200 for a 40kg batch in the wholesale market. Retail prices for chicken meat are now around Rs600 per kilogram, up from Rs590.

Egg prices have decreased, with a carton of 30 dozen eggs now costing Rs9,100, down from Rs9,300. In retail, eggs are being sold at Rs320 per dozen. Meanwhile, the prices of mutton and beef have remained stable, with normal quality mutton priced at Rs2,100 per kilogram and boneless beef at Rs1,250 per kilogram.

Interestingly, the prices of tea have not changed, with Lipton Yellow Label available at Rs2,200 for a 900 grams pack. On the other hand, turmeric powder has seen a decrease from Rs800 to Rs750 per kilogram, and red chili powder has dropped from Rs650 to Rs600.

Wheat flour prices, however, have increased slightly. The best quality flour is now priced at Rs1,380 for a 15kg bag in the wholesale market, while retail prices have risen to Rs1,430. Normal quality wheat flour has also seen a price hike, moving from Rs1,320 to Rs1,350 per 15kg bag.

Pulses have shown a mixed trend in pricing. For instance, the best quality maash is now available at Rs520 per kilogram, down from Rs580, while gram pulse prices have decreased from Rs430 to Rs380. However, moong prices have increased from Rs280 to Rs330 per kilogram.

In the realm of cooked food, prices have seen a slight uptick. A plate of cooked daal or vegetable at a normal hotel is now priced at Rs320, up from Rs310. Similarly, cooked chicken and mutton plates have increased in price, now costing Rs500 and Rs750, respectively.

Moreover, the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has risen by Rs2.89 per kilogram, now standing at Rs254 as per official rates, while market prices are significantly higher at around Rs310 per kilogram. This discrepancy has raised concerns among consumers, as LPG distributors are reportedly charging inflated rates.

As for spices, the prices of branded options like Shan and National have increased, with a 39 grams pack now costing Rs140, up from Rs130. Rice prices have remained stable, with the best quality basmati rice available at Rs11,000 for a 40kg bag.

In the dairy section, prices for packed milk brands such as Milk Pak and Olpers have remained steady at Rs90 for a 250ml pack and Rs350 per litre. Fresh milk prices are stable at Rs230 per kilogram, while yoghurt is priced at Rs250 per kilogram.

Vegetable prices have shown a decreasing trend overall. For instance, potato prices have dropped from a range of Rs250-400 to Rs230-350 for a 5kg bag. Tomatoes have also seen a price reduction, now costing between Rs280-400 per 5kg in the wholesale market.

While some essential kitchen items have seen a decline in prices, others have experienced increases, reflecting the complex dynamics of the market. Consumers are advised to stay informed about these fluctuations to make better purchasing decisions. As the economic landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for households to adapt and find ways to manage their budgets effectively.