SPI Shows Mixed Trend: Weekly Dip but Annual Rise of 5%
Islamabad – The Sensitive Price Index (SPI) stood at 335.35 points this week, slightly down from 335.41 points recorded a week earlier. On an annual basis, however, the index showed a 5.03% increase, reflecting a general rise in prices over the past year.
The SPI, based on 2015-16 prices (base year = 100), monitors the cost of 51 essential items across 17 urban centers, covering all income groups.
For the lowest income group, earning up to Rs17,732, the SPI dipped by 0.10% to 327.39 points. Other income brackets also saw small declines: 0.13% for Rs17,733–22,888, 0.11% for Rs22,889–29,517, and 0.09% for Rs29,518–44,175. In contrast, the highest income group, earning above Rs44,175, recorded a slight increase of 0.06%.
Of the 51 items surveyed, 22 (43.14%) experienced price hikes, 4 (7.84%) saw declines, while 25 (49.02%) remained stable.
Weekly Price Movements
On a week-on-week basis, the largest increases were seen in onions (12.17%), tomatoes (10.47%), potatoes (3.57%), LPG (3.10%), and sugar (1.46%). Conversely, prices dropped for wheat flour (-9.80%), chicken (-3.20%), bananas (-3.10%), and gur (-0.30%).
Yearly Price Changes
Over the past year, some items recorded sharp rises, including tomatoes (90.07%), ladies’ sandals (55.62%), gas charges (29.85%), and sugar (29.33%). On the other hand, significant decreases were noted for onions (-40.28%), garlic (-26.69%), and electricity charges (-21.37%).
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.