The prices of spices have surged, with a 20 to 25 per cent increase exacerbating the financial burden on consumers as Eid-ul-Adha approaches.
In Multan’s markets, inflation is spiralling out of control. Wholesale rates have jumped significantly: cloves are selling for Rs3,400 per kg, black pepper for Rs3,500, garam masala for Rs2,800, while red chilli and turmeric are priced at Rs700 per kg.
Local residents said that spice prices begin to rise even before Eid, and overall inflation worsens during the festive season. “A ration that used to cost Rs5,000 now costs Rs.8,000,” one shopper lamented.
Traders have attributed the spike in prices to excessive taxation on spices. They stated that items such as white cumin, cloves, black pepper, black cardamom, and cinnamon — all key components of garam masala — have become 20 to 25 per cent more expensive, forcing them to raise prices by Rs5 to Rs10.
Citizens are urging the authorities to take concrete measures to control spice prices and provide relief before the Eid festivities.
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