Pakistan inflation hits 11.97% as wheat and flour prices surge

Pakistan’s short-term inflation reached 11.97% year-on-year for the week ending October 8, 2026, driven largely by rising food, energy, and transportation costs. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, wheat flour prices saw a significant weekly increase of 5.69%.

In Punjab, wheat prices in the open market rose by Rs. 600 per maund, climbing from Rs. 4,700 to Rs. 5,300. This surge has directly impacted flour availability and pricing; a 15kg bag of flour is now retailing for approximately Rs. 2,300. Flour mills have reported that the price hike is due to a reduction in government wheat supplies, with mills receiving only 3,500 tons against a daily demand of 15,000 to 20,000 tons.

Industry representatives warn that prices may continue to rise unless the government increases the official wheat quota. While imported wheat is expected by November, current supply shortages and high costs continue to pressure household budgets.