Key Takeaways
- Live chicken and meat prices increased in Peshawar's retail market.
- Retail flour prices remain high despite wholesale price reductions.
- LPG prices saw a significant increase, while some grocery items saw price stability.
Peshawar has witnessed a mixed trend in the prices of essential food commodities, according to a recent survey by Business Recorder. The survey highlighted that while some items have seen price hikes, others have remained stable.
The price of live chicken has increased, with one kilogramme now costing Rs445 compared to Rs405 previously. This rise has been noted in the retail market, indicating a shift in consumer costs.
Retail prices of cow meat have remained unchanged, with a kilogramme without bone available at Rs2000 and with bone at Rs1500, against the official rate of Rs900 per kilogramme set by local authorities.
Mutton beef prices in the open market range from Rs2800 to Rs3000 per kilogramme, reflecting the variability in meat prices. The survey noted that despite reductions in flour prices, retailers continue to charge higher rates, with one kilogramme selling at Rs180, compared to the wholesale rate of Rs150.
LPG prices have also seen a significant increase, with a kilogramme now available at Rs500-550 in the open market, up from previous rates.
Cooking oil and ghee prices remain high, with no change noted in the retail market. Specific brands are not mentioned, but the overall trend is of a bullish market for these items.
Vegetable prices have shown mixed trends. Tomatoes are now available at Rs100 per kilogramme, a 50 percent cut from previous prices, while onions cost Rs150 per kilogramme. Red potatoes are priced at Rs70 per kilogramme, and white potatoes at Rs50 per kilogramme.
Pulses have remained stable in the retail market. Good quality rice (sela) is available at Rs360 per kilogramme, while low quality rice ranges from Rs300-320 per kilogramme, and toota rice at Rs200-220 per kilogramme.
The survey noted that despite the overall trend of price stability in the wholesale market, retailers and shopkeepers continue to charge higher rates, indicating a disconnect between wholesale and retail pricing.
