SPI Inflation Sees Fifth Straight Weekly Rise, Mixed Trends Across Income Groups
Pakistan’s Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI)-based inflation continued its upward streak for the fifth consecutive week, though week-on-week changes showed a marginal dip. The overall SPI for combined consumption groups inched down by 0.01 percent, settling at 329.11 points from 329.15 points in the previous week.
Low-income households, earning up to Rs17,732, saw a 0.20 percent rise in SPI, which climbed to 318.59 points from 317.94 a week earlier. Other income brackets displayed mixed trends: middle-income groups experienced slight increases, while higher-income groups saw marginal declines.
Specifically, consumption groups earning Rs17,733 to Rs22,888 recorded a tiny 0.01 percent decrease. Groups in the Rs22,889–29,517 range saw a 0.15 percent rise, and those earning Rs29,518–44,175 experienced a 0.22 percent increase. Households with incomes above 44,175 witnessed a small drop of 0.02 percent.
Out of 51 essential items tracked, prices of 18 items (35.29%) increased, 8 items (15.69%) fell, and 25 items (49.02%) remained stable. Key weekly price increases were recorded for electricity charges (+9.01%), diesel (+4.46%), moong pulse (+1.71%), potatoes (+1.15%), bananas (+0.92%), and mash pulse (+0.88%). Meanwhile, notable declines were observed in tomatoes (−19.87%), onions (−10.85%), wheat flour (−9.38%), chicken (−3.63%), garlic (−2.28%), and sugar (−1.20%).
Year-on-year, certain items became significantly more affordable, including onions (−45.99%), garlic (−25.25%), mash pulse (−23.47%), potatoes (−20.66%), and wheat flour (−9.34%). On the other hand, prices for sugar (+26.11%), gas (+29.85%), ladies’ sandals (+55.62%), beef (+13.03%), and vegetable ghee (+11–12%) surged noticeably.
The weekly SPI, based on the 2015–16 base year (100), monitors prices of 51 essential items across 17 urban centers for all expenditure groups.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.