Pakistan is facing another wave of inflation as roti and naan prices surge across the country. Following the recent hike in sugar rates, rising flour prices are now hurting households. These increases come as wheat supplies tighten due to ongoing flood-related disruptions in Punjab. The impact is especially hard on low-income families who depend on affordable daily meals.
In Karachi, tandoor owners have raised roti prices by Rs2 per piece. Similarly, in Punjab, bakery and tandoor associations have announced steep hikes in naan, paratha, and roghani naan. Talks between the government and bakers’ groups have collapsed. District administrations in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and other regions failed to reach an agreement. Bakers have gone into hiding to avoid arrest as authorities attempt crackdowns.
The Pakistan Nanbai Association says the price of red flour rose from Rs5,435 to Rs9,700 per sack in just ten days. Fine flour is now selling for up to Rs10,400. The result is a jump in roti prices—Surkh Patiri now costs Rs20, up from Rs14. Naan and paratha prices are expected to rise by Rs5 per piece, causing further pressure on daily food budgets.
Flour prices have also soared in Karachi. A 5kg branded bag of fine flour now costs Rs700, up from Rs500 just weeks ago. Experts say hoarding by large traders is worsening the crisis. While the new wheat crop arrived in spring, major stockists are allegedly holding supplies, betting on even higher prices.
Meanwhile, tandoor owners are struggling to stay afloat. In Sindh, naan now costs Rs25, and chapati Rs14-15. Prices of sheermal and taftan remain steady for now but could rise by Rs10 if flour rates climb further. Many tandoors are considering halting the sale of Rs20 naan entirely, as it no longer covers costs.