KARACHI: So far Ramazan just weeks away, a subtle but noticeable shift is unfolding across Karachi’s markets, quietly reshaping household budgets and trader expectations. In this sense, vegetables that had recently touched unusually low levels are no longer immune. Tomatoes, onions and potatoes have all registered fresh increases over the past two weeks, ending a brief period of price stability.
At the same time, flour and fruit two staples with increased demand during Ramazan are also showing signs of upward pressure, according to market observations and industry sources.
In this regard, retailers report that fruit prices are already reacting to anticipated demand. Bananas, apples and guavas key items for iftar are being sold at higher rates, with vendors attributing the increase to both seasonal factors and early buying activity.
Meanwhile, the flour market presents a more complex picture. A recent survey shows that wheat flour prices have inched up over the last fortnight, with both branded and unbranded varieties becoming costlier. These conflicting claims come at a sensitive time, as the arrival of the new Sindh wheat crop in March is expected to play a decisive role in price direction.
The government intervention in wheat pricing late last year was aimed at stabilising the market, but questions over quality, blending practices and retail margins continue to cloud the outlook.
Ramazan approaches, these early movements may be just the beginning. Whether prices stabilise or escalate further will depend on supply management, regulatory oversight and market discipline factors that will be closely watched in the days ahead.
