Small traders, particularly those in the food business, are struggling due to the rising prices of essential commodities.
In November, the price of cooking oil surged from Rs530 to Rs560, marking a Rs30 increase, while the cost of ghee climbed to Rs550.
This inflationary pressure has left hotel, restaurant, and food cart owners alarmed, as the soaring ghee and cooking oil prices are making it increasingly difficult to sustain their businesses. The price hike has significantly impacted sales, as higher food costs strain consumers’ budgets, forcing them to cut back on spending.
Also read: Pakistan’s Weekly Inflation Jumps to 15.02%
Small business owners report that their expenses have doubled while profit margins have shrunk. The continuous rise in basic commodity prices is not only burdening businesses but also placing immense financial pressure on households.
Already grappling with inflation, consumers now face an even steeper cost for basic necessities, including food, due to the spike in ghee and cooking oil prices. Frustrated citizens criticize the government for its inability to provide relief.
On October 18, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported a 0.28% increase in weekly inflation, measured by the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), for the week ending October 17.
