Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, chaired a meeting of the National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) today to review the current price situation of essential commodities and assess market supply mechanisms, focusing on measures to ensure price stability and protect consumer interests.
According to Press Information Department, the meeting was attended by senior representatives from the Federal Government, Provincial and Regional Governments, Islamabad Capital Territory Administration, and departments responsible for food quality, price monitoring, market regulation, and standardization. The Committee examined recent developments in essential commodity prices, inflation trends, and market dynamics, as well as progress on strengthening price monitoring and improving supply chain efficiency.
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal underscored the necessity of effective coordination among federal, provincial, and district administrations to ensure smooth market operations. He urged all relevant authorities to enhance price monitoring mechanisms and take steps to improve market efficiency. The Minister stressed the importance of bridging the gap between wholesale and retail markets by improving supply chain systems and enhancing coordination with provincial and regional administrations.
The Minister also instructed the Ministry of Science and Technology to expedite the testing of cooking oil/ghee and milk samples to complete a comprehensive quality assessment promptly. He emphasized food safety, quality, evidence-based decision-making, and timely technical evaluations. Engagement with industry representatives, including edible oil and ghee manufacturers, was also encouraged to maintain stable prices.
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) provided insights into recent inflation trends and commodity price movements, while the Ministry of National Food Security and Research reported on the availability of agricultural inputs and measures under the Government’s wheat policy. Discussions included improving supply chain efficiency and market infrastructure, with directives to explore the establishment of wholesale markets in major urban centers.
Concluding the meeting, Minister Iqbal reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to price stability and consumer welfare, emphasizing modern market systems and effective monitoring as crucial for a balanced economic environment. The meeting ended with a resolve to continue proactive monitoring and institutional coordination to protect consumer interests.