Rawalpindi witnessed a steep increase in prices of essential commodities, food items, vegetables, fruits, milk, yoghurt, meat, and chicken during the outgoing fiscal year 2025-26 compared to previous years. As the new fiscal year 2026-27 began on Wednesday, prices of many items are expected to rise by Rs20 to Rs30 per kilogram and by 15 to 18 percent from the very first day, with further increases feared during the first fortnight of July.
Budget-Driven Inflation Expected
According to details, the new federal and Punjab budgets, which include higher taxes, fees, and service charges, are expected to keep inflation at elevated levels throughout the year. These budgetary measures are likely to exert sustained upward pressure on consumer prices.
Specific Price Increases in 2025-26
Milk, which sold for Rs200 per kilogram on July 1, 2025, increased twice during the year and now costs Rs250 per kilogram. Yoghurt has risen from Rs220 to Rs280 per kilogram. Mutton has increased from Rs1,800 to Rs2,700 per kilogram, while beef has risen from Rs800 to Rs1,500 per kilogram. Gram pulse increased from Rs300 to Rs380-390 per kilogram, white chickpeas from Rs380 to Rs430, mash pulse from Rs500 to Rs600, and red kidney beans from Rs400 to Rs500 per kilogram. Soft drinks have increased from Rs180 to Rs210 per bottle. Chicken has risen from Rs400 to between Rs620 and Rs650 per kilogram, while ghee has increased from Rs450 to Rs550 per pouch and cooking oil from Rs460 to Rs600.
Impact on Consumers
These price surges are expected to strain household budgets, particularly for low- and middle-income families. The cumulative effect of higher taxes and rising commodity costs may reduce purchasing power and increase the cost of living across the country.
