Onion prices have started climbing in Karachi, with retail rates reaching around Rs200 per kilogram. The official price notified by the Commissioner of Karachi is Rs184 per kg. In some markets, smaller onions are being sold for around Rs150 per kg.
The increase comes as Pakistan enters the seasonal period when onion prices usually face upward pressure. Market sources say the current crop is nearing the end of its supply cycle, while the new crop is expected to start arriving in markets around mid-October.
For now, Karachi and other parts of the country are depending largely on onion supplies from Balochistan. A recent report by Jang said onion prices in Quetta have also gone up by Rs40 per kg, pointing to wider supply and seasonal pressures.
The government is expected to use imports to cover the seasonal shortage and help keep prices from rising sharply until the arrival of the new crop.
The recent rise in fuel prices is also adding to transportation costs. Petrol increased to Rs364.35 per litre from September 9, while high-speed diesel reached Rs385.95 per litre. Higher fuel costs can raise transportation expenses and put further pressure on vegetable prices as produce moves from farms to markets.
The Commissioner Karachi’s official website continues to publish a dedicated price list for vegetables. The administration has also previously instructed district authorities to carry out market inspections and ensure that notified rates are followed.
As the arrival of the new crop is still several weeks away, consumers may continue to pay higher prices for onions in the short term, especially if supplies from major producing areas remain limited.