On March 1, 2026, Pakistan's headline inflation is projected to rise to 7.2% year-on-year for February, the highest since July 2024, primarily due to seasonal price pressures during Ramadan and a low base effect, as reported by Taurus Securities Limited. This increase is exacerbated by a recent hike in fuel prices, with petrol rising by Rs. 8.00 to Rs. 266.17 per litre and high-speed diesel increasing by Rs. 5.16 to Rs. 280.86 per litre, effective from March 1, 2026. These adjustments follow a significant increase in petroleum prices announced by the federal government, attributed to geopolitical tensions following an Israel-US strike on Iran. The transport index is expected to rise by 1.4% month-on-month, reflecting the impact of these fuel price adjustments. Perishable food items are anticipated to see a sharp 10% month-on-month increase, further straining household budgets, particularly for middle and lower-middle-class families already facing rising transportation costs due to the fuel price hikes.
BUSINESS
Pakistan Inflation Hits 7.2% Amid Fuel Price Increases
83% NEGATIVE
Pakistan's inflation is set to hit 7.2% in February 2026, driven by seasonal pressures, rising fuel prices, and food costs, complicating the economic outlook ahead of the March 9 monetary policy me...
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STstartuppakistan.com.pk
TLtribune.com.pk
BRbrecorder.com
TFPthefrontierpost.com
PPprofit.pakistantoday.com.pk
PRpropakistani.pk
THthenews.pk
DTdailytimes.com.pk
DTPdailythepatriot.com