Flour prices in Lahore rise as wheat supply concerns push up retail rates

Retail prices of flour and related products have increased in Lahore amid concerns over wheat availability in the market, according to the Lahore Flour Dealers Association.

The price of a 15-kilogram flour bag has increased by ₨100 to ₨1,800, up from ₨1,700. The price of an 80-kilogram fine flour bag has risen by ₨500 to ₨10,500, while a 50-kilogram semolina bag now costs ₨6,500, also reflecting an increase of ₨500.

The latest increase translates into a rise of ₨6.67 per kilogram for flour, ₨6.25 per kilogram for fine flour and ₨10 per kilogram for semolina.

According to market participants, the increase comes as the flour milling industry faces supply constraints following the government's decision to freeze private wheat stocks declared on the official portal.

Although flour mills can continue obtaining fresh wheat permits from District Food Controller offices, restrictions on declared stocks have reduced the immediate availability of wheat in the market.

Industry sources said lower wheat availability in the open market is contributing to upward pressure on flour prices.

Market observers indicated that future price movements will largely depend on wheat supplies and availability in the open market.