THE concerns expressed by Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal over rising prices of essential commodities highlight the need for effective price monitoring and timely intervention by the relevant authorities. Chairing a meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee, he called for stronger measures to curb hoarding, profiteering and unjustified price increases.
These are indeed difficult times for consumers. Rising oil prices have added to the cost of transportation and distribution, putting further pressure on the prices of essential commodities. According to the figures presented at the meeting, year-on-year inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index, stood at 10.3 percent in September, compared with 11.1 percent in August. Although the rate registered a decline, the continued increase in the prices of essential items remains a serious concern for households already struggling to meet their daily needs. In these circumstances, the relevant authorities must remain vigilant and ensure that people receive relief wherever possible. Provincial and district administrations need to strengthen market inspections, monitor supplies and take strict action against those exploiting the situation for excessive profits. The issue of DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) prices also deserves immediate attention.
Despite a decline in international markets, domestic prices remain high. With wheat cultivation set to begin in the coming weeks, the timely availability of fertilisers at reasonable rates is essential. Excessive input costs can discourage farmers from using adequate fertiliser, potentially affecting crop yields and the country’s future wheat supply. The Ministry of National Food Security and Research should investigate the reasons behind these high prices and ensure that the benefit of lower international rates reaches farmers. Price monitoring must go beyond collecting statistics and holding meetings. It should translate into visible action in markets, effective enforcement and relief for consumers. Protecting purchasing power, supporting farmers and ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential goods require coordinated efforts by federal, provincial and district authorities.
