Pakistan’s weekly inflation moved higher in mid-May, with fresh increases in food and fuel costs adding pressure on household budgets.
Data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics showed that the Sensitive Price Indicator rose by 0.47 percent for the week ending May 14, 2026.
The rise was led by sharp increases in everyday items. Tomato prices saw the biggest jump, followed by notable increases in footwear such as gents sponge chappals and ladies sandals. Wheat flour, petrol and diesel also became more expensive, along with onions, bananas and other kitchen essentials including milk, curd and sugar.
Despite the overall increase, some relief was seen in a few items. Chicken and eggs became cheaper during the week, while prices of garlic, pulses and LPG also declined slightly.
Mixed trend across essential items
Out of 51 essential commodities tracked, prices of 23 items increased during the week, while nine items recorded a decline. The remaining 19 items showed no change.
On a yearly basis, inflation remains elevated. The SPI recorded a 14.52 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
Fuel prices have surged the most over the year, with petrol and diesel recording increases of over 60 percent. Wheat flour, electricity charges and key food items such as onions and tomatoes have also seen steep rises, reflecting continued pressure on household spending.
However, some items have become more affordable compared to last year. Prices of potatoes, pulses, chicken and eggs have dropped significantly, offering partial relief to consumers.
Construction, agriculture costs also shift
In the construction sector, cement prices remained largely stable on a weekly basis, with a slight decline recorded. However, they are still higher compared to last year.
Meanwhile, fertiliser costs edged up, with the average price of Sona urea rising slightly from the previous week and also showing an increase on an annual basis.
The Sensitive Price Indicator tracks weekly price movements of 51 essential items across major cities and is widely used to gauge short-term inflation trends. The data gives policymakers a near real-time view of price changes and helps assess pressure on consumers.
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