Soaring Prices, Empty Plates: Fruits and Vegetables Slip Out of Reach in Pakistan
A fresh wave of inflation has gripped Pakistan’s markets, pushing essential fruits and vegetables beyond the reach of ordinary citizens. Once staples in every household, items like mangoes, apples, tomatoes, and onions are now being seen as luxuries by the lower and middle-income groups.
Market Snapshot:
Major markets in cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad have reported alarming price hikes:
- Tomatoes: Rs. 180 per kg
- Onions: Rs. 160 per kg
- Potatoes: Rs. 120 per kg
- Garlic and ginger: Up to Rs. 700 per kg
As for fruits:
- Mangoes: Rs. 300–350 per kg
- Apples: Rs. 400 per kg
- Bananas: Rs. 200 per dozen
- Melons and watermelons are also seeing sharp price jumps.
What’s Causing the Spike?
Unpredictable Weather:
Irregular rains, heatwaves, and water shortages in some areas and flooding in others have badly affected crop yields across the country.
Weak Agricultural Policies:
Farmers complain of little to no support in the form of seeds, fertilizers, or affordable irrigation. Rising fuel and input costs make it harder for small farmers to sustain production.
Hoarding and Profiteering:
Middlemen and warehouse owners are accused of stockpiling large quantities of produce to create artificial shortages, allowing them to jack up prices without fear of regulation.
Imbalanced Import-Export Strategy:
To meet demand, Pakistan is importing certain fruits and vegetables—adding taxes and transport costs to the final price. Meanwhile, many exporters prioritize foreign markets for better profits, neglecting local supply chains.
Government Response:
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture claims to be closely monitoring the situation. In Punjab, special price control teams have been established to regulate market prices, but results so far have been disappointing. Officials also promise action against hoarders and are reviewing subsidies for farmers.
Public Reaction:
Citizens are frustrated and deeply concerned.
“Fruits are no longer part of our routine—just for weddings or guests now,” said one shopper.
Many families say they now buy vegetables only two or three times a week and have removed fruit entirely from their children’s diet.
Expert Opinion:
Economic analysts warn that the situation may worsen unless immediate reforms are made. They stress the need to empower local farmers, streamline the supply chain, and ensure fair pricing mechanisms to prevent a looming food crisis.
Conclusion:
In today’s Pakistan, fruits and vegetables have gone from being essentials to becoming unaffordable. Without quick and targeted government action, the gap between inflation and income may leave millions nutritionally vulnerable—and markets increasingly unstable.
