Flour Price Remains Stable at Utility Stores Despite Decrease in Market Rate
Published on: May 8, 2024.
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Flour Prices Unchanged at Utility Stores Despite Market Drop
ISLAMABAD: Despite a decline in market rates across Pakistan, utility stores have maintained their prices for flour, according to a recent report by ARY News.
Utility stores throughout the country are selling essential items, including flour, at prices higher than those in the market. The 20kg bag of flour, for instance, is being sold at utility stores for Rs 2,840, which is Rs 778 more than the market price of Rs 2,062.
Similarly, sugar is being sold at utility stores for Rs 10.37 more per kilogram compared to the market rate, while ghee (clarified butter) is being sold for Rs 9.64 more per packet than the market rate.
Basmati rice and Tota Basmati rice are also being sold at utility stores for Rs 2.47 and Rs 2.50 more per kilogram than the market rates, respectively.
This disparity has raised concerns among consumers who had expected the utility stores to provide essential items at affordable prices. Despite the drop in market rates, the utility stores have failed to pass on the benefits to the consumers.
The news comes at a time when Pakistan’s headline inflation has recorded its lowest level in two years. In April, the inflation rate stood at 17.3% year-on-year. Experts suggest that the government’s efforts to take strict administrative measures have contributed to this decline.
According to the Finance Division, the inflation outlook remains moderate, with expectations that the inflation rate will hover around 18.5-19.5% in April 2024. However, there are hopes for a gradual easing to 17.5-18.5% in May 2024.
It is crucial for the utility stores to reassess their pricing strategy and align it with the market rates to ensure affordability for the general public.
Source: [ARY News](https://arynews.tv){:target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”}
