Tomato prices skyrocket to Rs560 per kg across Pakistan

Tomato prices have surged sharply across Pakistan, including Karachi, with retail rates reaching as high as Rs560 per kilogram in some markets.

According to drtails, the price hike has been described as unprecedented, with retail sellers charging double or even more than the wholesale rate, which currently ranges between Rs250 and Rs300 per kilogram.

As a result, consumers are now buying smaller quantities, often as little as 250 grams, to meet immediate needs.

Haji Shah Jehan, President of the Welfare Association of the Super Highway Wholesale Vegetable Market, said that reduced supply in wholesale markets has driven the price surge.

He explained that Balochistan’s tomato crop is nearing its end, while imports from Iran have significantly declined.

The tense situation along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border has also disrupted tomato supplies from Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, Sindh’s new crop is expected to reach markets next month.

Haji Shah Jehan added that the absence of official price lists in many markets allows retailers to set prices arbitrarily, fueling profiteering.

Prices of other vegetables, including peas, zucchini, and ginger, have also increased by Rs50 to Rs100 per kilogram.