As Ramadan approaches, a significant surge in prices of essential commodities has been reported across Pakistan, particularly in Karachi and Lahore. The Lahore High Court has intervened, seeking responses regarding the pre-Ramadan price hikes, which have left many citizens struggling. According to the Tribune, inflation has risen to 5.8%, up from 5.6% in December 2025, exacerbating the financial burden on families during this holy month. "The decision of the government to raise the prices of petroleum products by Rs5 and Rs7.32 for petrol and HSD, respectively, on the eve of the fasting month is disturbing," the Tribune noted, highlighting the distress caused by rising costs. In Karachi, shoppers at Jodia Bazaar reported sharp increases in the prices of staples such as flour, lentils, cooking oil, and eggs, with many items seeing price hikes of 50% compared to the previous year.