ISLAMABAD: National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) reviewed prices of essential commodities and expressed satisfaction over stabilization of prices of essential items. Committee directed quarters concerned to be vigilant and keep eye on food prices to provide relief to common man, news release said.

Meeting chaired by Minister for Planning,  Development and Special Initiatives Muhammad Sami Saeed was attended by Secretary Planning Ministry Awais Manzur Sumra, Chief Statistician from Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Chief Economist of Pakistan, representatives from all provinces, Federal Board of Revenue, Ministry of Food Security and Industries and relevant stakeholders.

During meeting, PBS officials presented detailed briefing and shared price and inflation data while representatives from Punjab, KP, Sindh and Balochistan apprised forum on current production and supply of wheat, sugar and other essential commodities which according to them remained satisfactory.

Minister emphasised zero tolerance against hoarders and profiteers, directing provincial governments to engage their respective commissioners, deputy commissioners and magistrates to check malpractices including hoarding.

During meeting, PBS informed meeting about its Decision Support Initiative in shape of an online monitoring mechanism across country.

Meeting also highlighted importance of minimising price differential between wholesale and retail prices of essential items. Relevant stakeholders were directed to minimise this difference to maximise relief for common man.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 03 2023

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