Flour price up by Rs100 for 20-kg bag

LAHORE : Flour mills have increased ex-mill price of a 20-kg bag of flour by Rs 100, jacking up its price from Rs 1,100 to Rs 1,200. Consequently, at the retail level, the price of a 20-kg bag of flour has increased by Rs100, and its price has swelled from Rs1,250 to Rs1,350.

Flour millers claimed that the increase in the price of a 20 kg bag of flour is due to the high cost of wheat in the open market. They added that the price of wheat in the open market has increased by Rs 200 per 40kg to Rs 2,200 from Rs 2,400. Increase in flour price is a serious blow to consumers after downward trend seen briefly in the rates of this essential commodity a few weeks back. This price hike will likely affect households, bakeries, and other businesses that rely on flour as a primary ingredient.

The recent price increase will put additional pressure on household budgets, particularly for low- and middle-income families who already struggle to afford basic necessities, further exacerbating the financial burden on consumers. The government and regulatory bodies may need to monitor the situation closely to prevent further price hikes and ensure that the market remains stable.

The recent increase in flour prices is a concerning development that will likely have far-reaching implications for consumers and the broader economy. It followed by the strict regulation of wheat and flour prices by the provincial government in the last about a year, providing much needed relief to consumers.