The inflation pressure in the country is affecting the rural population as well as the citizens, and according to the latest data, the increase in prices in villages was higher than in cities.
According to the report of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, inflation in rural areas increased by 0.61 percent on a monthly basis in January, while this increase in cities was 0.23 percent. On an annual basis, urban inflation was recorded at 5.81 percent and rural inflation at 5.79 percent.
There was a significant increase in food items. Dry milk, meat, pulses, dry fruits and cooking oil became expensive. Bakery items and fish prices also increased, affecting the household budget.
On the other hand, the reduction in some essential items provided partial relief to consumers. Sugar became cheaper by about 10 percent, eggs by 6 percent and motor fuel by more than 3 percent. Electricity charges also saw a slight decrease.
Economists say that inflation is looking high in rural areas due to rising agricultural costs and transport costs. According to them, if food supply and market monitoring are improved, prices can be kept under control.
They further say that government policies and global market trends will determine the direction of inflation in the coming months.
