Flour and roti prices rise sharply across the country.

Karachi – KP – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) -People across Pakistan are now paying more for flour and their daily bread, known as roti. This price jump comes right after the recent surge in sugar costs, putting more strain on household budgets.

In Karachi, local bakeries have increased the price of a single roti by two rupees. This change hits low-income families and daily wage workers the hardest, as they often depend on these bakeries for their meals.

The cost of packaged flour from known brands has also gone up sharply. A standard five-kilo bag of fine flour now sells for 700 rupees. This is a significant rise from 500 rupees just last month. Many believe large traders are holding onto stocks to earn more money from the high demand.

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Analysts say the recent floods are not the main reason for this wheat shortage, as the crop was harvested months ago. Instead, they point to people storing large amounts of wheat, hoping to sell it for even higher prices later.

A representative for local bakers explained that a naan now costs 25 rupees, up from 22. A plain chapati has also gone up by two rupees. Some bakers are waiting, hoping flour prices will come down before they raise costs further.

The price for a large 50-kg bag of fine flour has jumped by 1,900 rupees in a single month. While the cost of sugar and cooking oil has also risen, prices for certain breads like sheermal have not changed yet. Bakers warn they may have to raise those prices soon if flour costs don’t fall.

Some bakers are even thinking about stopping the sale of their cheapest naan option. The current price no longer covers what it costs them to make it. The cost of raw wheat is at its highest point in over a year.