Karachi residents are facing the highest flour prices in Pakistan, with the cost of a 20-kilogram bag reaching Rs3,540, according to the latest report released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The figures highlight the continued pressure on household budgets as essential food items remain expensive across several major cities.
According to a report by 24NewsHD TV on Friday, Karachi recorded the highest price for a 20kg flour bag among the cities included in the latest comparison. The price difference between Karachi and other urban centres reflects the varying costs of essential food commodities across the country.
Hyderabad recorded the second-highest price, with a 20kg bag of flour selling for Rs3,400. In Islamabad, the same quantity was available at Rs3,333.33, while Rawalpindi recorded a price of Rs3,306.66.
In Larkana and Peshawar, flour prices reached Rs3,300 for a 20kg bag. Meanwhile, Bannu, Quetta and Khuzdar recorded prices of up to Rs3,200.
The latest figures place Karachi at the top of the reported flour price comparison, with consumers paying more than residents of the other listed cities.
Flour is one of Pakistan’s most important household food essentials, as wheat-based products such as roti and chapati are part of everyday meals for millions of families. Any increase in flour prices can therefore have a direct impact on monthly household expenses, particularly for low-income and middle-income groups.
For families purchasing flour regularly, the difference in prices can significantly affect their food budgets. Households with larger family sizes may experience even greater financial pressure because they need to purchase flour more frequently.
The higher rates in Karachi also raise questions about the factors contributing to differences in food prices between cities. Transportation expenses, supply chain conditions, wholesale market rates and local distribution costs can influence the final price paid by consumers.
Karachi’s large population and dependence on supplies transported through different distribution networks also make food affordability an important issue for residents. Maintaining a consistent supply of wheat and flour at reasonable prices remains essential for household food security.
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics regularly monitors prices of essential commodities across different cities to track changes in the cost of living. Its price reports provide an overview of regional differences and help identify areas where consumers are facing higher costs.
The latest comparison shows that Karachi residents are paying Rs140 more than consumers in Hyderabad for a 20kg flour bag. Compared with the reported price of Rs3,200 in Bannu, Quetta and Khuzdar, the difference reaches Rs340.
With flour remaining a basic necessity, its affordability continues to be an important concern for households across Pakistan, particularly in cities where prices are significantly higher than the national market range.