Rising tomato prices across Pakistan continue to put pressure on household budgets, with retail rates remaining elevated despite the import of tomatoes from Iran.
Tomato prices have stayed consistently high in cities across the country, making the staple vegetable increasingly expensive for consumers.
In Karachi, tomatoes are selling for between PKR 400 and PKR 550 per kilogram. Ripe tomatoes are priced at PKR 500–550 per kg, while unripe tomatoes are being sold for up to PKR 400 per kg.
In Peshawar, tomatoes are reportedly retailing for PKR 400–450 per kg. Similarly, prices remain high in Lahore, Quetta, and other cities despite the availability of imported Iranian tomatoes.
Traders say that although imported tomatoes are available in the market, increased demand and limited supply have prevented prices from falling significantly.
The surge in tomato prices has prompted many households to use alternatives such as yogurt and other ingredients in their daily meals. Consumers say the rising cost of essential food items is making it increasingly difficult to prepare everyday dishes.
Members of the public have urged the government to take effective measures to stabilize tomato prices, curb hoarding, and prevent profiteering in the market.
