Gradual price stability observed despite global pressures: Ahsan

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th Apr, 2026) Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal has said that a gradual trend of price stability was being observed across the country despite evolving regional and global challenges.

Chairing the weekly meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee (NPC), he noted that stability in fertilizer prices, despite international pressures was an encouraging sign reflecting effective policy measures, a news release said on Friday. He added that coordinated efforts by federal and provincial authorities were helping improve price trends of essential commodities.

The committee was briefed that transport fares had remained unchanged, while poultry prices had reverted to pre-Gulf conflict levels, offering relief to consumers.

Highlighting the need for sustainable stability in the poultry sector, the minister stressed the importance of establishing a robust cold chain infrastructure to reduce price volatility and ensure uninterrupted supply.

He directed the authorities concerned to submit comprehensive proposals on cold chain development within five days.

Expressing concern over the presence and sale of substandard ghee and other food items in rural areas, he called for strict enforcement measures to ensure quality standards.

The minister urged all provincial and federal institutions to remain vigilant to sustain price stability and prevent artificial shortages, emphasizing the need to ensure adequate availability of essential commodities.

He also appreciated the performance of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics and provincial governments for effective weekly price monitoring and data management, terming it vital for informed decision-making.

The meeting reviewed the overall supply and price situation of essential commodities and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining relief measures and strengthening market oversight to protect public interest.