Overview
- Official data show consumer prices rose 6.2% year on year in October and 1.8% from September, reversing recent moderation.
- Authorities linked the acceleration to August flood damage and restricted Pakistan–Afghanistan border trade that tightened food supplies.
- Core inflation strengthened to 7.5% in urban areas and 8.4% in rural areas, pointing to persistent underlying pressure.
- Food costs surged, with tomatoes up about 127%, sugar near 35%, and notable increases in wheat and wheat flour reported across outlets.
- The State Bank of Pakistan kept its policy rate at 11% on Oct. 27, cautioning inflation will stay above its 5–7% target for a few months before easing next fiscal year.