Pakistan Wheat Prices Defy Government Import Plan

Pakistan's wheat and flour prices have continued to rise despite the government's plan to import one million tons of wheat, highlighting persistent supply concerns and market speculation.

The national average price of a 10kg wheat bag increased to Rs1,223 from Rs1,179 in the week ending July 30, while fine flour rose to Rs152.14 per kilogram from Rs148.

The price of a 20kg flour bag climbed to a range of Rs2,200-3,133 compared with Rs2,200-2,960 in the previous week, indicating sharper increases since March when a 20kg flour bag was priced between Rs1,810 and Rs2,740.

Domestic wheat production increased by 4.3% but analysts attribute the sustained price hikes to hoarding, speculation, and weak market oversight.