Pakistan cost of living

Pakistan SPI Inflation recorded a weekly increase of 0.97% for the week ended March 26, 2026, reflecting rising costs of essential commodities across the country. According to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the surge was primarily driven by sharp increases in food items and household energy costs, impacting consumers already coping with tight budgets. The Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), a weekly gauge of short-term inflation in Pakistan, tracks price movements of 51 essential commodities across major cities. The latest figures indicate continued volatility in essential goods, particularly vegetables, poultry, and fuel-related items. Pakistan SPI Inflation Driven by Food Price Surge The weekly rise in Pakistan SPI Inflation was largely fueled by a notable increase in vegetable and protein prices. Onion prices jumped by 18.10%, followed by tomatoes which increased by 11.38%. Similarly, poultry and staple food items also recorded upward movements. Chicken prices rose by 8.70%, potatoes increased by 8.11%, while eggs went up by 3.54%. Meat prices also edged higher, with mutton increasing by 2.55% and beef by 1.52%. These increases directly affect household spending, especially for middle- and lower-income families. Energy-related costs also contributed to inflationary pressure. LPG prices surged by 10.05%, and electricity charges for the first quarter increased by 6.11%. Firewood and clothing items such as georgette recorded modest increases as well. Limited Relief as Some Items Decline Despite the overall rise in Pakistan SPI Inflation, a few essential items recorded price declines during the week. Bananas fell by 4.50%, while wheat flour dropped by 1.00%. Sugar prices decreased slightly by 0.29%, and marginal declines were seen in gur, pulse moong, and IRRI rice varieties. However, these decreases were not enough to offset the broader upward trend, as the majority of essential goods continued to show price pressures. Nearly Half of Essential Items Show Price Increase Out of 51 tracked commodities, prices of 23 items increased, representing 45.10% of the basket. Only six items recorded declines, while 22 items remained unchanged. This distribution highlights the widespread nature of inflationary pressure across different categories. The weekly data underscores that Pakistan SPI Inflation is not limited to a single sector but reflects broad-based increases affecting food, energy, and basic household items. Year-on-Year Pakistan SPI Inflation at 8.24% On an annual basis, Pakistan SPI Inflation rose by 8.24% compared to the same period last year. Major increases were recorded in LPG, diesel, and gas charges, each rising by nearly 30% or more. Petrol prices increased by 25.75%, while wheat flour rose by 25.76%. Food inflation also remained elevated. Onion prices increased by 25.07%, chilies powder by 15.20%, and beef and mutton rose by double digits. Powdered milk, basmati rice, and gur also recorded notable increases. However, some items saw substantial year-on-year declines. Potatoes dropped by 45.71%, pulse gram by 17.54%, and eggs by 13.63%. Garlic, salt powder, chicken, pulse masoor, and sugar also recorded decreases, providing limited relief to consumers. Fertilizer and Cement Prices Continue to Edge Higher The data also highlighted changes in input costs relevant to agriculture and construction. The average price of Sona urea reached Rs 4,485 per 50 kg bag, showing a 0.78% weekly increase, though it remained slightly lower compared to last year. Meanwhile, cement prices averaged Rs 1,483 per 50 kg bag, rising 0.68% week-on-week and 7.32% on an annual basis. The increase in construction material costs could impact housing and infrastructure development expenses. What Pakistan SPI Inflation Means for Consumers Pakistan SPI Inflation serves as a real-time indicator of price changes in essential commodities. Since it is calculated weekly, policymakers use it to monitor short-term inflation trends and evaluate market conditions. The latest increase suggests persistent pressure on household budgets, particularly due to food and energy costs. With nearly half of essential items showing price increases, consumers may continue to face higher living expenses in the coming weeks.