Inflation in Pakistan has climbed to a one-year high of 6.24%, with the month of October 2025 recording a 1.83% spike — the sharpest monthly increase in 12 months.

The surge, driven by rising food and energy prices, exceeded the government’s expectations of keeping inflation between 5% and 6%.

According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), inflation in urban areas was recorded at 6%, while rural inflation stood at 6.6%. The average inflation rate for the first four months of the fiscal year — from July to October 2025 — was 4.73%, showing a steady upward trend.

The core inflation rate, which excludes food and energy prices, was recorded at 7.5%, reflecting broader price pressures across non-food sectors.

Food prices surge across country

October proved particularly tough for households as food prices rose steeply. The price of tomatoes jumped by a staggering 58%, while onions became 19% more expensive.

Vegetables as a category saw an increase of 12.22%, wheat rose by 10.5%, and flour by 5.5%. Similarly, eggs became 4.22% costlier, fish by 4%, and potatoes by 2.6%.

Prices of fruits, butter, ghee, and cooking oil also recorded significant increases, according to the PBS report.

Utilities, transport, housing costs also climb

Beyond food, electricity charges surged by 8.78%, while transport fares rose 3%. House rents and dental services also saw price hikes during the month.

The restaurant and hotel sector experienced a 6% annual increase, while clothing and footwear prices were up by more than 8% compared to last year.

Meanwhile, the housing, water, electricity, gas, and fuel category collectively became 4.24% more expensive on a yearly basis.

Few relief points amid inflation surge

Not all sectors experienced inflation. Live broiler chicken became cheaper by 21.51% in October, offering some relief to consumers.

Additionally, prices of potatoes, gram, lentils, moong, beverages, and honey fell slightly. The cost of textbooks and construction materials also showed marginal declines.

The charges for recreational facilities dropped by 3.71% compared to last year, marking one of the few categories to record a decline.

October emerges as the toughest month of the year

Economists say the sharp rise in food and energy prices in October was the primary driver of the inflation spike. Despite government estimates suggesting moderate inflation, the month turned out to be the most inflationary period in the past year, hitting both urban and rural consumers hard.