Ramazan profiteering

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With the arrival of Ramazan, an unfortunate yet predictable pattern has emerged - profiteering that preys on the increased demand for essential food items. Despite an official price list, enforcement remains absent, and the administration's response has been limited to symbolic complaint centres. As a result, citizens are once again at the mercy of traders who exploit the holy month for financial gain.

What makes this even more troubling is that these exploitative practices peak during a sacred month meant for generosity and heightened God-consciousness. Instead of fostering a spirit of compassion, vendors and wholesalers inflate prices without hesitation. This unchecked price gouging is even more indefensible given the recent drop in Pakistan's inflation rate.

In February 2025, inflation fell to 1.5% YoY - the lowest level since September 2015, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. With overall inflation easing, there is no justification for the sudden surge in food prices during Ramazan. The fact that prices continue to soar despite improved economic indicators exposes not only the inefficiency of regulatory authorities but also the greed of those controlling the market.

Each year, government officers are given magistrate powers to regulate food prices during Ramazan, yet the effort remains reactionary at best. A few token raids are conducted, a handful of violators are penalised, and then business resumes as usual. There is no long-term deterrence, leaving citizens forced to either cut back on their purchases or pay unjustified prices for essential items.

This cycle cannot continue. The government must introduce a Ramazan price strategy with strict price enforcement and real-time monitoring. Instead of short-term remedial measures, authorities must establish a rapid-response mechanism to address market manipulation as it happens.