Tomatoes have become more expensive than chicken meat in Karachi as prices of the essential kitchen item surged beyond Rs500 per kilogram, while chicken is being sold at Rs450 per kg across the city.
According to market surveys, tomatoes are being sold between Rs450 and Rs550 per kg in various neighborhoods and local markets, far above the government’s official rate of Rs280 per kg.
Retailers attributed the sharp price hike to the halt in tomato imports from Afghanistan and limited supplies from Punjab, forcing heavy reliance on Iranian tomatoes, which currently meet about 90 percent of Karachi’s demand. However, traders said even this supply is insufficient to stabilize prices.
Shopkeepers said they are unable to sell tomatoes at official rates as wholesale prices in the markets remain high. “If the administration wants enforcement of official rates, it should first ensure implementation at the wholesale level,” one retailer remarked.
Meanwhile, the district administration has warned that vendors who refuse to follow official pricing lists will face penalties. Officials managing Bachat Bazaars (discount markets) stated that traders not adhering to the government’s fixed prices will not be allowed to sell.
The surge in tomato prices has added further strain on household budgets already facing high inflation, as consumers call on authorities to take urgent measures to control food prices in the city.
