Tomato prices spike due to weather impact, transport challenges

ISLAMABAD: The Price Control Department stated that the recent rise in tomato prices stems from temporary supply interruptions linked to unfavorable weather conditions and transport delays.

A department spokesperson said that heavy rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had damaged tomato crops, creating a temporary shortage in the market.

The spokesperson added that delays in tomato imports from Afghanistan and Iran further strained supply, resulting in short-term price increases.

“The recent hike in tomato prices is primarily due to seasonal changes, rainfall, and transport constraints,” the statement said.

According to the department, the price surge is temporary, and rates are expected to decline next week as supply normalizes. The spokesperson also noted that Sindh’s tomato harvest in November and Punjab’s crop in April–May will ensure ample availability in the coming months.

Earlier, Tomato prices have risen sharply across Pakistan, putting extra pressure on consumers in major cities as rates per kilogram have gone far above normal levels.

In Karachi, shopkeepers are selling tomatoes between Rs. 500 and Rs. 700 per kilogram, even though the official government rate is Rs. 322 per kg. In areas like Federal B Area, the price has reached Rs. 650 per kg, while in Gulshan-e-Iqbal and Burns Road, sellers are charging up to Rs. 700 per kg.

In Sindh’s Shaheed Benazirabad district, tomato prices have touched a seasonal high of Rs. 600 per kg in Sakrand tehsil, according to local traders.

In Peshawar, the prices of many vegetables have gone up quickly. Tomatoes have crossed several 100-rupee marks, and onions are also being sold for more than Rs. 100 per kg.

Quetta is seeing slightly lower prices compared to other cities, where tomatoes are available for around Rs. 300 per kg.