Pakistan inflation, as measured by the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI), increased by 4.26% year-on-year for the week ending February 12, 2026. This rise occurred despite a weekly decrease of 0.59%, attributed to falling prices of eggs, tomatoes, chicken, and wheat flour, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
The annual increase in inflation was primarily driven by significant rises in essential commodities. Tomatoes saw a 73.36% increase compared to the same week last year, while wheat flour prices rose by 33.82%. Utility costs, particularly gas charges, increased by 29.85% year-on-year, further contributing to the inflationary pressures.
Despite weekly declines in some prices, such as eggs dropping by 17.61% and tomatoes by 12.02%, several commodities continued to rise. Bananas increased by 7.62%, garlic by 4.35%, and pulse mash and chilli powder also saw gains. Meat prices edged up, reflecting ongoing supply-side pressures.
The SPI, tracking 51 essential items across 17 urban centers, showed mixed trends. Out of these, prices for 15 items increased, 15 decreased, and 21 remained unchanged. Inflationary pressures varied across income levels, with the lowest expenditure group facing a 4.54% annual increase compared to 3.32% for the highest-income group.
The mixed SPI trend reflects short-term price corrections in perishable items alongside structurally higher food and utility costs. Although recent weekly declines offer temporary relief, sustained pressure from utilities and staple food prices suggests that inflation risks remain embedded in the economy. Policymakers and markets need to continue monitoring these trends closely.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 15th, 2026
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