Govt steps up price monitoring

June 19, 2026 (MLN): Efforts to maintain stable prices of essential commodities, improve market efficiency and strengthen consumer protection remained in focus as the government reviewed the latest inflation trends, commodity price movements and supply conditions across the country.

During a meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) held on Thursday, participants assessed the prevailing price situation of essential goods, market supply mechanisms and ongoing measures aimed at ensuring price stability and safeguarding consumer interests.

The meeting reviewed recent developments in inflation, wholesale and retail market trends, supply chain performance and progress on initiatives designed to enhance price monitoring systems and improve coordination among relevant stakeholders, according to APP.

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, emphasized the importance of close coordination among federal, provincial and district administrations to facilitate smooth market operations and protect consumers.

He directed concerned authorities to further strengthen price monitoring mechanisms and adopt proactive measures to improve market efficiency.

Highlighting the need to reduce disparities between wholesale and retail markets, the minister called for improvements in supply chain systems and stronger collaboration with provincial and regional administrations.

He noted that efficient market management and transparent monitoring were essential to ensure that the benefits of improved supply conditions are passed on to consumers.

The minister also instructed the Ministry of Science and Technology to expedite the testing and analysis of cooking oil, ghee and milk samples so that a comprehensive assessment of product quality available in the market could be completed at the earliest.

He stressed the significance of food safety, quality assurance and evidence-based decision-making through timely technical evaluations.

The committee was informed that engagement with industry representatives, including edible oil and ghee manufacturers, would continue to review market trends and identify opportunities for maintaining price stability through effective coordination and monitoring.

Officials from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics briefed the forum on recent inflation patterns, commodity price movements and wholesale-retail price differentials.

The committee was informed about ongoing efforts to closely track market developments and strengthen data-driven analysis to support policy interventions.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research informed the committee that sufficient stocks of key agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, were available to meet domestic requirements.

Participants were also briefed on measures under the government's wheat policy aimed at supporting farmers, promoting agricultural production and ensuring food security.

The meeting further discussed steps to enhance supply chain efficiency and market infrastructure. Relevant authorities were directed to explore the establishment and strengthening of wholesale markets in major urban centres to improve distribution networks and facilitate consumers.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to price stability and consumer welfare, Ahsan Iqbal said coordinated efforts, modern market systems and effective monitoring mechanisms were critical for maintaining a balanced and efficient economic environment.

The committee resolved to continue proactive monitoring, strengthen institutional coordination and implement measures to improve market management and protect consumer interests.

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