Eggs prices rise Rs5.85 despite slight weekly inflation decline

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) published its latest weekly inflation report, indicating a marginal decrease in the inflation rate, although prices of several essential commodities, including eggs rose.

The report highlights a record decline of 0.04 per cent in the weekly inflation rate, while the annual inflation rate has risen to 0.98 per cent.

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In the past week, 13 items experienced price increases, 15 items became cheaper and 23 items maintained stable prices. The report detailed that significant price hikes in essential commodities, which may make impact consumer spending and overall economic sentiment.

Among the notable price increases, bananas saw a rise of Rs12.96 per dozen, while chicken prices surged by Rs15.45 per kilo. Garlic prices rose by Rs9.77 per kilo, and sugar saw an uptick of Rs1.16 per kilo.

Despite report noting a decrease in weekly inflation, eggs also became more expensive, with prices of the protein-rich commodity increasing by Rs5.85 per dozen.

Other items experiencing price increases included mutton, beef, milk, curd, and dal mash, indicating a broader trend of rising costs in the food sector.

Meanwhile, the report noted a decrease in tomato prices, which fell by Rs5.42 per kilo. A 190-gram tea packet also saw a reduction, dropping by Rs3.63 per kilogram, with another report indicating a decrease of Rs24.26 per kg for the same item.

The price of dal chana fell by Rs6.48 per kg, while other items such as LPG, flour, jiggery and firewood also experienced price reductions. This may provide a much-needed relief for inflation-weary consumers in specific categories.

The stability of prices for 23 items, including cigarettes, matches, and clothing indicates resilience in certain sectors of the economy. The stability may provide a buffer against the volatility often seen in food prices, which are more susceptible to seasonal fluctuations and supply chain disruptions.

The mixed results in the inflation report reflects the confusing maze that is the current economic landscape in the country. While essential goods are experiencing price increases, others are seeing reductions, which is bound to influence consumer spending.

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The overall economic outlook still remains uncertain in 2025, with various factors, including dependency on foreign loans and domestic demands  fluctuations contributing to the ongoing price volatility.