As the holy month of Ramazan approaches, the country braces itself for potential shortages in key commodities, particularly onions and bananas.

Concerns over the scarcity of these essential items have prompted discussions at both provincial and federal levels, increasing the likelihood of their exports being banned to address the impending shortfall.

In response to the looming shortage of onions and bananas, the Punjab chief secretary has proposed a temporary ban on the export of bananas to Iran and Afghanistan, and of onions to Gulf states, until the end of Ramazan. This recommendation aims to ensure sufficient availability of these items for domestic consumption during the sacred month.

Moreover, exporters have claimed that the export of onions and bananas has been temporarily banned, while the price of onions has skyrocketed owing to a ban on their export by India.

In line with this proposal, the Ministry of Commerce has directed the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan to inform stakeholders about the potential export restrictions. This move underscores the government's proactive approach to managing the anticipated scarcity and prioritizing the needs of the local population.

Prices of commodities set

Meanwhile, the Karachi commissioner has issued a price notification for various commodities ahead of Ramazan. Prices have been set for essential items such as milk, sugar, flour, meat, and poultry products to ensure affordability and accessibility for consumers during the fasting period.

The price of milk has been set at Rs200 per kilogramme, sugar Rs130 per kg, flour Rs128 per kg, fine flour Rs138 per kg, boneless beef Rs950 per kg and Rs800 with bone, goat meat Rs1,700 per kg, live chicken Rs366 and its meat Rs598 per kg. The previous rate of chicken meat was Rs502 per kg.

Moreover, the price of samosa has been fixed at Rs33 per piece and pakora Rs560 per kg. Khajla pheni will be available at Rs690 per kg. The prices of various pulses are as follows: Maash Rs495 per kg, moong Rs242, masoor Rs275, and channa Rs204 per kg.

The price of white channa has been set at Rs363 per kg, black channa Rs182, and chickpea flour (besan) at Rs209 per kg.

However, despite efforts to regulate prices and address potential shortages, the country is already grappling with soaring onion prices following India's ban on onion exports. This situation underscores the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the impact of external factors on domestic commodity markets.

As Karachi and the rest of the country prepare for Ramadan, authorities remain vigilant in addressing potential challenges, ensuring adequate supplies of essential commodities, and facilitating a smooth and blessed observance of the holy month.