Ramazan inflation deepens as poor planning increases food price

Ramzan has brought inflation on key food items, leaving many households feeling the strain of higher costs for fruits, vegetables and staples. 

According to official data, weekly inflation is rising during holy month as food prices increase after a brief calm, causing renewed pressure on household budgets.

Economists and agricultural stakeholders note, that despite the predictable rise in consumption of fruits and other items during Ramazan, there is no systematic demand analysis guiding production and supply decisions. 

“There is no assessment in Pakistan of how demand for major fruits and vegetables changes during Ramazan or across months,” said Mahmood Nawaz Shah, president of the Sindh Abadgar Board.

Moreover, markets in major cities, including Karachi and Peshawar, have seen sharp jumps in fruit and vegetable costs, with bananas, apples and other high-demand items climbing significantly compared with earlier weeks, adding to inflationary pressures.

Analysts argue that the absence of strong forecasting means producers and traders rely on guesswork rather than data when planning crops and distribution, worsening shortages and enabling traders to push prices upward. 

According to stakeholders, without linking historical consumption patterns to production cycles, authorities are unable to guide farmers on what to grow or when.

High food inflation has already forced families to tighten spending as the month begins, with many adjusting purchasing habits to cope with rising costs.