In a much-needed turn of events, flour prices in Karachi have dropped significantly, providing a much-needed break for the city’s residents. This price reduction marks the second decrease in just two weeks, offering relief to consumers who have been struggling with rising prices.
The Commissioner of Karachi recently confirmed the price reduction, announcing that the cost of chakki flour has fallen by Rs 10 per kilogram, now priced at Rs 105. This drop is a welcome change, especially considering the high prices that have been affecting many households. Additionally, the wholesale price of fine flour has decreased by Rs 3, bringing it down to Rs 92 per kilogram. Retailers are also offering a similar reduction, with fine flour now priced at Rs 96 per kilogram in stores across the city.
The price of 2.5 kg atta has also experienced a significant price cut. In the wholesale market, the price of a 2.5 kg pack has dropped by Rs 5, now priced at Rs 85 per kilogram. Meanwhile, the retail price of the same pack has been reduced to Rs 89 per kilogram, making it more affordable for families and individuals who rely on atta for their daily meals.
This price drop comes as a welcome contrast to the previous surge in flour prices, which saw an alarming rise in areas like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and other parts of Punjab. Earlier, flour prices had skyrocketed, with the cost of an 80kg bag increasing by Rs 1300. This increase caused concern, particularly for those who rely on flour for making bread (roti), prompting the Naan Bai Association to call an emergency meeting to discuss the rising bread prices.
The federal government’s intervention has played a crucial role in the recent price drop. After discussions with flour mill owners, the government successfully abolished a 5.5 percent advance income tax, which had been a major concern for the flour mills. This decision followed negotiations with the Flour Mills Association, after the mill owners held a strike against the income tax imposed in the 2024-25 budget.
The drop in flour prices in Karachi is a welcome relief for consumers, especially with the ongoing economic challenges. With food prices continuing to fluctuate, this decrease brings hope to those who have been feeling the pressure of high living costs. The government’s proactive approach and successful negotiations with flour mill owners demonstrate the importance of timely intervention to stabilize essential food prices.
This recent development highlights the significance of both market forces and government actions in ensuring that basic necessities like flour remain affordable for the public. For now, Karachi residents can breathe a little easier, as the cost of one of their daily staples has become more manageable.
