Despite repeated government efforts to regulate prices, shoppers in Lahore are still paying well above official rates for fruits, vegetables, and poultry.
Poultry Prices Soar Above Official Rates
The poultry sector continues to lead the surge. While the government set live chicken prices between Rs397–411 per kg, shopkeepers are charging Rs480–500 per kg. Chicken meat costs are even steeper, with regular cuts selling for Rs630–710 per kg and boneless chicken reaching Rs1,100–1,200 per kg—almost double the official rate.
Fruits: Little Relief for Consumers
Fruit prices showed a mix of stability and sharp jumps.
- Apples: Steady at Rs170–305 per kg.
- Bananas (A-grade): Rs197–220 per dozen.
- Guavas: Rs205–215 per kg.
- Papaya & Mango Varieties: Up by as much as Rs90 per kg.
Other fruits, including grapes, apricots, peaches, and pomegranates, also saw small but persistent hikes, further widening the gap between official pricing and what buyers actually pay at stalls.
Vegetables: Prices Vary Wildly by Quality
Potatoes and onions continue to frustrate consumers with large discrepancies between grades and market prices.
| Item | Official Rate (A-grade) | Market Rate (Mixed) |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | Rs80–85 per kg | Rs120–150 per kg |
| Sugar-free Potato | Rs55–60 per kg | Rs100–120 per kg |
| Onions | Rs65–70 per kg | Rs80 per kg |
| Tomatoes | Rs95–100 per kg | Rs120–130 per kg |
| Garlic (local) | Rs205–215 per kg | Rs300 per kg |
Even with clearly defined price slabs for A-, B-, and C-grade vegetables, sellers continue mixing varieties to justify charging far more than the official rates.
A Persistent Problem
Seasonal vegetables like brinjal, spinach, zucchini, okra, capsicum, and cabbage followed a similar pattern, fluctuating weekly but rarely reflecting government price notifications.
The disconnect between price lists and real-world rates points to weak enforcement and market manipulation. With inflation already squeezing household budgets, Lahore’s consumers are left with little choice but to pay inflated rates for daily essentials.