ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has directed federal and provincial authorities to take strict action against hoarding, artificial shortages and excessive pricing of essential commodities to protect consumers across Pakistan.
Dar issued the instructions on Friday while chairing a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Essential Commodities in Islamabad. The meeting reviewed available stocks, supply arrangements and prevailing market prices to assess the availability of essential goods.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officials informed the committee that existing stocks were sufficient to meet domestic demand. They also reported that no shortages were expected and prices were showing signs of stabilisation.
However, Dar emphasised the need for continued vigilance to prevent market manipulation and ensure consumers could purchase essential items at reasonable prices. He directed relevant departments to closely monitor supply chains and commodity prices in accordance with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s instructions.
The meeting brought together the ministers for National Food Security and Research and Climate Change, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, Commerce Secretary and senior representatives of federal and provincial departments.
The government’s directives come amid continuing concerns about rising living costs and pressure on household budgets. Recent inflation figures have highlighted increases in the prices of food items, fuel and other essential products.
Authorities are expected to strengthen market inspections and take enforcement measures against traders involved in illegal stockpiling and unjustified price increases.
The government aims to maintain uninterrupted supplies, discourage profiteering and improve affordability for domestic consumers.
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