Food inflation widens price control gap

A widening disconnect between officially fixed prices and actual market rates persisted this week, underscoring flaws in price control mechanisms and leaving consumers to bear the brunt of unchecked inflation affecting essential food items.

Despite marginal adjustments in official rates, most commodities continued to sell significantly above notified prices in retail markets, reflecting weak enforcement and supply-side distortions.

Live chicken price officially rose by Rs3 to Rs397–411 per kg but remained largely unsold in several localities. Chicken meat also increased by Rs4 per kg to an official rate of Rs595, yet consumers paid between Rs650 and Rs700. Boneless chicken prices remained elevated, exceeding Rs1,100 per kg in many areas.

Vegetable prices showed a mixed trend in official lists but continued to defy regulation in practice. Tomatoes increased by Rs5 per kg to Rs75–80 officially, while retail prices ranged from Rs120 to Rs160. Onion prices saw a slight official reduction of Rs5 per kg to Rs65–70, but were sold between Rs80 and Rs120 per kg.

Potatoes remained unchanged at Rs18–20 per kg on paper but retailed at Rs30–40 per kg. Farm cucumbers rose to Rs47–50 per kg officially but sold as high as Rs100 per kg.

The gap was more pronounced in high-demand kitchen staples. Local garlic prices were reduced by Rs20 per kg to Rs147–155, yet retail rates hovered between Rs200 and Rs220. Chinese garlic edged up to Rs480–500 per kg but was sold at Rs600, while Harani garlic, despite a price cut, still fetched Rs350–400 per kg in markets.

Ginger prices increased to Rs272–285 per kg but continued to retail between Rs400 and Rs450, highlighting persistent supply chain inefficiencies.

Among vegetables, bitter gourd saw a notable increase of Rs15 per kg to Rs157–165 officially, but was sold at Rs200–250 per kg. Brinjal and pumpkin recorded official declines, yet retail prices remained disproportionately high. Ladyfinger, even after a Rs10 reduction, was sold at Rs300–350 per kg against official rates of Rs195–205.