Pakistan inflation hits a 19-month high in March

Pakistan’s inflation accelerated in March 2026, reaching its highest level in 19 months as both consumer and wholesale prices moved sharply upward. The latest reading points to renewed pressure on households already dealing with elevated living costs.

Consumer inflation rose on both annual and monthly bases, with urban areas posting a stronger increase than the previous month. Rural inflation also stayed elevated, indicating that price pressures are broad-based rather than confined to a single segment of the economy.

Other inflation gauges also moved higher. Sensitive price indicators and wholesale prices showed a notable uptick, while core inflation remained firm, suggesting that underlying price momentum has yet to ease meaningfully.

The latest data may complicate the policy outlook for authorities trying to stabilize prices while supporting growth. A sustained rise in inflation could influence future decisions on interest rates, public spending and broader economic management.