Pakistan is facing an unprecedented surge in tomato prices, with rates skyrocketing across major cities. In some areas, tomatoes that once cost Rs100 per kg are now being sold for as high as Rs700, making them one of the most expensive household essentials amid the ongoing inflation crisis.
Jhelum, Gujranwala see sharpest spike
In Jhelum, the storm of inflation shows no sign of easing as tomato prices have soared to Rs700 per kg, up from just Rs100. Citizens say the hike has made daily cooking difficult, forcing many to reduce their consumption.
In Gujranwala, tomatoes are being sold for Rs575 per kg, a steep increase blamed on the impact of recent floods. Shopkeepers report that the supply has dwindled significantly, leading to a surge in wholesale market rates.
Faisalabad, Multan hit by supply crisis
In Faisalabad, the price of tomatoes has jumped from Rs160 to Rs500 per kg, leaving consumers in distress. Traders attribute the rise to crop damage and disrupted supply chains caused by the floods.
Meanwhile, in Multan, tomatoes are selling for Rs450 per kg, even though the administration’s official rate list caps the price at Rs170 per kg. Vendors argue that the government’s price list is “unrealistic” given current wholesale market conditions.
Lahore markets overrun by inflation
Tomatoes in Lahore have reached Rs400 per kg, far exceeding the government-fixed price of Rs175. Citizens have urged the government to take immediate notice and enforce price controls.
Shoppers complain that the cost of all essential items — meat, pulses, and especially vegetables — has become unbearable. “Tomatoes have been sold at high prices for days; the government should take strict action,” one citizen said.
Shopkeepers, on the other hand, argue that the supply of tomatoes is extremely low, forcing them to buy at inflated market prices.
Quetta residents hit hard by inflation
In Quetta, tomatoes are now being sold for Rs300 to Rs350 per kg, pushing them out of reach for many citizens. Shoppers say they are forced to return empty-handed due to the price hike.
Vegetable vendors report that their sales have dropped drastically. “Our business is suffering; people can’t afford these prices,” one vendor said. Citizens have demanded that the district administration activate the Price Control Committee to curb profiteering and bring relief to the public.
Peshawar faces price surge amid trade disruptions
In Peshawar, tomato prices have risen to Rs450 per kg, despite the official rate being fixed at Rs320. Traders say that due to the closure of trade routes with Afghanistan, tomato supplies have dwindled.
“Iranian tomatoes are coming to the market, but the Afghan border closure has disrupted normal supply,” said a trader. As a result, the official rates have become meaningless, and consumers are forced to pay market prices.
Floods and trade disruptions behind price hike
Across Pakistan, flood-related crop damage and disrupted trade with Afghanistan have led to severe shortages. Experts warn that without government intervention, the crisis could worsen in the coming weeks, further burdening already stretched household budgets.
Citizens from every province are calling on the government and price control authorities to take urgent action against profiteering and ensure stable vegetable supply in markets.
