Islamabad: Tomatoes have become a luxury in Pakistan. In Lahore, Karachi and other major cities, the price of a single kilo has shot up to an unbelievable PKR 700. Just weeks ago, the same cost only 100 rupees. The jump has stunned families and small eateries across the country. In many homes, tomatoes have vanished from the kitchen.

Local supply chains are broken. Flood-hit crops and the halt of trade with Afghanistan have deepened the shortage. For years, Pakistan relied on Afghan imports to fill market gaps. That flow has now stopped. Border tensions have left trucks stranded and markets empty.

Samaa TV reported that the country is witnessing one of its sharpest vegetable price surges in decades. In many markets, tomatoes now sell for more than chicken. Traders say the crisis is spre

See Full Page