Islamabad, October 3, 2025 – A sharp rise in petroleum prices has contributed to an increase in weekly inflation, which climbed by 0.56% during the week ending October 2, 2025, according to the latest data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The government revised fuel prices effective October 1, 2025, raising petrol by Rs4.07 per litre, pushing the rate to Rs268.68 compared to the previous Rs264.61. Similarly, high-speed diesel rose by Rs4.04 per litre to Rs276.18 from Rs272.77. Economists believe that this adjustment in petroleum prices is a key driver of short-term inflation, as higher transport costs directly affect the prices of essential goods.
The PBS report based on the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) noted that the largest increases were recorded in Tomatoes (46.44%), Petrol (1.72%), Diesel (1.45%), Garlic (1.41%), and Onions (1.22%). Items such as Mutton, Beef, Vegetable Ghee, and Curd also showed modest increases. On the contrary, notable decreases were observed in the prices of Chicken (7.96%), Bananas (0.78%), and LPG (0.42%). Out of 51 essential items tracked, prices of 19 rose, 12 declined, while 20 remained unchanged.
On a year-on-year basis, the SPI showed an overall increase of 4.07%. Substantial hikes were observed in Tomatoes (89.81%), Sugar (33.73%), Gas charges (29.85%), and Wheat Flour (13.37%). However, significant declines were reported in Onions (44.93%), Chicken (31.08%), and Garlic (28.69%).
Experts warn that the continued rise in petroleum prices may further fuel inflation in the coming weeks, especially as higher logistics costs ripple through the supply chain. The PBS data suggests that if petroleum prices remain elevated, food and household items will likely remain under pressure, keeping weekly inflation trends upward.