Tomato Price in Pakistan: Pakistan, already grappling with a severe economic crisis, is now facing the brunt of food inflation. Tomato prices have skyrocketed in major Pakistani cities, posing a new problem for the general public. In major cities like Lahore, Karachi, Faisalabad, and Jhelum, tomato prices have reached 400 to 700 rupees per kilogram.
While tomatoes were selling for ₹100 per kilogram just a few weeks ago, the steep price hike has now disrupted people’s budgets. This surge is being attributed to crop failure, disruptions in trade with Afghanistan, and supply chain disruptions.
The reason for inflation
According to media reports, recent floods have severely damaged crops in many areas. This has led to a decline in tomato production and affected market supply. Furthermore, the closure of trade routes with Afghanistan has halted imports, further exacerbating the problem.
Traders in Quetta and Peshawar also cited the closure of the Afghan trade route as a major reason. Local shopkeepers say that demand is high and supply is low, leading to persistent price increases.
Tomato prices are skyrocketing in cities
According to media reports, tomato prices in different cities of Pakistan were seen as follows:-
- Jhelum: Rs 700 per kilogram
- Gujranwala: Rs 575 per kilogram
- Faisalabad: Increased from Rs 160 to Rs 500 per kg
- Multan: Rs 450 per kilogram
- Lahore: Rs 400 per kilogram
These prices have surprised the common people because the prices of this vegetable, which is a part of daily needs, have gone completely out of control.
Impact of trade shutdown with Afghanistan
A major reason behind the high tomato prices is believed to be the ban on imports from Afghanistan. The sudden halt to tomato shipments from across the border has disrupted supplies to wholesale markets across the country. This is directly impacting retail stores and the public’s pockets.
Public’s problems and government’s silence
While inflation has crushed the common consumer, the government has yet to offer a concrete solution. The government’s price remains merely on paper, seemingly unreflected in the market. People are lining up in long queues for cheap tomatoes, but relief is nowhere in sight.
