Cooking Oil Prices Rise Sharply Across Pakistan, Hitting Household Budgets

Islamabad — February 2026: Cooking oil prices have increased sharply across Pakistan, adding new pressure on families already struggling with high inflation and rising living costs.

According to market sources, cooking oil prices have gone up by up to Rs. 60 per liter during the past week. The increase has pushed the average retail price to Rs. 550 per liter in many cities.

Supply Shortage Triggers Price Hike

Shopkeepers say cooking oil was previously selling at around Rs. 490 per liter. However, prices started rising due to a shortage in supply and higher procurement costs.

Retailers warn that if supply issues continue, prices may increase further in the coming days.

Consumers Face Growing Financial Stress

The latest increase has added to the financial burden on consumers. Many households are already cutting back on daily expenses as essential food items continue to become more expensive.

Buyers say cooking oil has become one of the most difficult grocery items to afford in recent weeks.

Flour Prices Also Increase

Alongside cooking oil, flour prices have also moved upward. A 5-kg bag of flour is now selling for around Rs. 900, which is significantly higher than some alternative brands available in the market.

The rise in flour prices has further affected low- and middle-income families.

Inflation Continues to Impact Daily Life

The increase in cooking oil and flour prices reflects the broader inflation trend in Pakistan. Rising costs of food essentials continue to strain household budgets across the country.

Economists warn that without effective price control measures, inflationary pressure on food items may persist.