National Price Monitoring Committee has stated that transport fares across Pakistan remain unchanged despite recent fuel price increases, while chicken prices have settled back to earlier levels after weeks of volatility.
The claim came during a meeting chaired by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal in Islamabad. However, officials did not provide detailed data on fare structures, even as commuters continue to report higher transport costs on multiple routes.
Authorities noted that provincial subsidies to goods transporters may have helped control freight charges, contributing to broader price stability. At the same time, officials from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics briefed the committee on market trends and inflation patterns.
The minister expressed satisfaction over stable fertiliser prices despite global pressure, calling it a positive sign for the economy. He also emphasised the need for structural reforms, particularly the development of cold storage systems in the poultry sector to prevent future price shocks.
Concerns were raised about the widening gap between wholesale and retail prices in some cities, prompting directives for stricter monitoring and better price alignment. The government also highlighted the need to curb the sale of substandard food items, especially in rural areas.
The committee reiterated its commitment to closely track essential commodity prices through regular meetings and ensure adequate supply across the country, aiming to keep inflation under control despite ongoing economic challenges.
