The Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) reported a slight decrease of 0.51% in weekly inflation for combined consumption groups as of the week ending on December 21.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the SPI stands at 310.00 points compared to 311.58 points the previous week.
Despite the week-on-week decrease, the SPI for the combined consumption group showed a substantial year-on-year increase of 42.60%. The SPI’s coverage includes 17 urban centres and 51 essential items for all expenditure groups.
The SPI for different consumption groups varied: For the lowest group (up to Rs 17,732), it decreased by 0.39%, while for other groups, decreases ranged from 0.40% to 0.59%. The week saw mixed trends in item prices: 18 items increased, 9 decreased, and 24 remained stable. Notable decreases included potatoes and fuel products, while increases were observed in items like eggs and firewood.
Year-on-year data showed significant price increases in several items, including gas charges and wheat flour, while some items, like onions and mustard oil, saw price drops.
 in Pakistan recorded a marginal 0.51% decrease in weekly inflation for combined consumption groups as of December 21, with a notable annual increase of 42.60%. The SPI tracks 51 essential items across 17 urban centers, reflecting varied trends in consumer prices.){kind=link}