KARACHI/ISLAMABAD: Tomato prices have surged dramatically across major cities, including Karachi and Islamabad, reaching as high as Rs550 per kg, as retailers charge well above the wholesale rate — further straining household budgets already stretched by inflation.
While the wholesale price ranges between Rs250 and Rs300 per kg, many retailers are demanding over double that amount. This is in stark contrast to the official government rate of just Rs170 per kg, as listed in the district administration’s price notifications.
Consumers Struggle, Demand Drops
The abrupt price hike has left many consumers buying only small quantities or cutting back entirely, with some turning to cheaper alternatives like tomato paste or yoghurt in cooking.
“I can’t afford to buy tomatoes at these prices,” said one shopper in Islamabad. “Even a few tomatoes cost over Rs100.”
Vendors have acknowledged a visible drop in demand, citing the sharp increase in wholesale costs and lack of enforcement on retail price controls as the main causes behind the unchecked pricing.
Criticism of Price Control Mechanism
The spike in tomato prices has sparked renewed criticism of the government’s ineffective price monitoring, with citizens calling for stricter action against profiteering and hoarding.
With no immediate relief in sight, consumers are bracing for further price pressure on other essential food items, especially as supply chain challenges persist.
