KARACHI: Karachi is witnessing a sharp rise in flour prices, sparking fears of a looming Karachi flour crisis. Mill owners have raised flour and maida rates, raising concerns about potential shortages in the city.
According to Abdul Rauf, Chairman of the Wholesale Grocers Association, flour prices have surged by Rs20 per kilogram. Fine flour now sells at Rs95 per kg in wholesale markets, while No 2.5 flour has reached Rs89 per kg.
These rates are much higher than the official prices set by Karachi authorities. The Karachi Commissioner had fixed fine flour at Rs78 per kg and No 2.5 flour at Rs66 per kg. Retail prices have climbed even further, with fine flour now at Rs110 per kg and No 2.5 flour at Rs95 per kg.
Chakki flour prices have also increased significantly, rising by Rs30 per kg to reach Rs120. The Flour Chakki Association explained that rising wheat costs and additional grinding expenses make it difficult to sell flour at lower prices.
Market observers have warned that the situation could worsen if wheat hoarding continues and authorities do not act quickly. Officials have previously issued notifications to control prices and ensure affordability, especially during Ramadan.
The notification set wholesale prices at Rs83 per kg for No 2.5 flour and Rs88 per kg for fine flour. Retail prices were fixed at Rs87 and Rs92 per kg, respectively. Chakki flour was set at Rs100 per kg. Bread and roti prices were also regulated, with a 100-gram roti priced at Rs10 and a 120-gram naan at Rs15.
Despite these regulations, Karachi markets are reporting higher rates. Fine flour is selling between Rs90 and Rs100 per kg, while Chakki flour costs Rs110 to Rs115. Chapati prices range from Rs18 to Rs20, and naan is priced at Rs25 to Rs28 without weight restrictions.
Authorities are urged to enforce pricing rules strictly to prevent an artificial shortage and control the impact of rising flour costs on residents.
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