The National Price Monitoring Committee checked inflation and essential commodity supplies ahead of Ramazan. Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal directed actions to control prices, prevent shortages, improve food quality, and strengthen domestic production.
On Monday, the National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) reviewed national inflation. The report showed that it rose from 4.1% in December 2024 to 5.6% in December 2025. It was mainly due to higher gas charges, gold prices, and increases in wheat, milk, and chicken costs.
Food availability and other measures ahead of Ramazan were also discussed in the meeting chaired by the Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal.
- Prices of onions, potatoes, pulses, and tea fell compared to last year.
- Wheat flour (20 kg) increased from Rs1,800 to Rs2,146.
- Sugar prices dropped from over Rs180/kg to around Rs150.
Senior officials from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, provincial governments, and other agencies attended the meeting in Islamabad.
Food Security and Stock Levels
- Wheat sowing targets have been met, and full seasonal yields are expected by February, ensuring domestic food security.
- National wheat stocks are enough for the next four months.
- Supply chains for gram, edible oil, dates, and pulses, which are in high demand during Ramazan, will be checked soon.
Deputy commissioners and provincial authorities will act to prevent hoarding and unfair pricing.
Measures on Food Quality and Exports
Minister Iqbal instructed stricter enforcement of food quality standards, especially for ghee production, to protect public health.
He directed the Ministry of National Food Security and Research to propose improvements in the sectors of poultry, dairy, and juice. It was also instructed to promote exports and reduce reliance on imports through local agricultural development.
Steps Ordered to Control Prices Before Ramazan
The minister instructed federal and provincial bodies, regulators, and financial institutions to coordinate with PBS for stock monitoring. It is to ensure to stabilize prices and protect consumers. He also tasked Deputy commissioners to prevent hoarding and profiteering.
Ahsan Iqbal said timely action, structural reforms, and reliable data are key to keeping prices stable, ensuring food security, and protecting public welfare ahead of Ramadan.
