pakistan inflation falls
|

Pakistan inflation falls to 9.2% in July 2026: PBS

ByJustpaste.in

Pakistan’s annual inflation eased to single digits in July 2026, with the latest official figures showing a noticeable decline in price growth compared to the previous month. However, economists cautioned that inflationary pressures have not disappeared, as higher fuel costs and other economic challenges continue to weigh on the outlook.

According to data released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) on Monday, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) recorded an annual inflation rate of 9.2% in July 2026. The reading marked a significant decline from 11.1% in June, although it remained considerably higher than the 4.1% recorded in July 2025.

On a monthly basis, consumer prices increased by 1.2% during July, reversing the 0.3% decline witnessed in June. In comparison, monthly inflation had risen by 2.9% in July last year.

Urban and rural inflation

The PBS data showed that inflation in urban areas slowed to 8.7% year-on-year in July, down from 11.2% in June. During the same month last year, urban inflation had stood at 4.4%.

Month-on-month, urban prices climbed 1.2%, compared to a 0.5% decline in June and a 3.4% increase recorded in July 2025.

Meanwhile, rural inflation also moderated, with the annual rate easing to 9.9% in July from 10.9% a month earlier. Rural inflation had been 3.5% in the corresponding month of last year.

On a monthly basis, rural prices increased by 1.2%, compared with no change in June, while July 2025 had witnessed a 2.2% monthly increase.

Government projects inflation to remain elevated

The Finance Division had earlier projected inflation to remain between 9% and 10% in July, warning that rising international oil prices could continue to exert pressure on domestic prices.

The ministry’s latest economic outlook also highlighted concerns over external investment, noting that Pakistan’s foreign direct investment (FDI) fell by 33.9% during the last fiscal year, declining from $2.48 billion in FY2024-25 to $1.64 billion in FY2025-26.

SBP keeps policy rate unchanged

Last week, the State Bank of Pakistan’s Monetary Policy Committee maintained the benchmark policy rate at 11.5% during its first monetary policy meeting of the new fiscal year.

Speaking after the decision, SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad said inflation was expected to decline in July and expressed optimism that it would gradually move towards the central bank’s target.

He said the State Bank expects inflation to settle within the upper end of its 5-7% target range by the close of the current fiscal year.

Analysts see base effect behind slowdown

Market analysts had largely anticipated inflation returning to single digits in July, though many argued that the improvement was mainly due to favourable statistical base effects rather than a broad-based easing in price pressures.

Analysts at Ismail Iqbal Securities estimated July inflation at 9.3%, saying the decline reflected comparison with a higher base from the previous year rather than a sustained reduction in inflationary momentum.

Similarly, JS Global projected headline inflation at 9.1% for July, indicating that while inflation has eased, underlying economic pressures continue to pose risks for the months ahead.

The latest inflation reading provides some relief for consumers and policymakers, but economists believe the path ahead will depend on global commodity prices, exchange rate stability, energy costs and the government’s fiscal management during the current financial year.

Similar Posts

  • |

    UK expands Global Talent visa scheme to attract world’s top scientists and engineers

    ByJustpaste.in

    In a major boost to Britain’s science and innovation ambitions, the UK government has announced a significant expansion of its Global Talent visa programme, allowing more than 100 research-intensive companies to sponsor leading scientists and engineers from around the world. Previously focused primarily on universities and research institutions, the expanded scheme will now enable eligible private-sector research organisations to recruit exceptional international talent directly. The move is aimed at strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader in cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, nuclear fusion, clean energy and life sciences. The government said attracting the world’s brightest researchers would accelerate scientific breakthroughs, support innovation-led industries and create highly skilled jobs across every region of the UK. The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to boost economic growth through investment in advanced research and technology. By widening access to the Global Talent visa route, ministers hope Britain will remain one of the world’s most attractive destinations for leading researchers, scientists and engineers amid increasing international competition for high-skilled talent.

  • |

    British Columbia declares state of emergency as explosive wildfire forces 22,000 to evacuate

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Canadian province of British Columbia has declared a provincewide state of emergency following a rapidly expanding wildfire that forced nearly 22,000 residents to evacuate their homes, with another 9,700 under active evacuation alerts. Over 100 wildfires are currently burning across the region, nearly half of which remain classified as out of control. The entire community of Summerland, comprising approximately 12,000 residents, received overnight mandatory evacuation orders alongside roughly 8,000 people in and around the neighbouring district of Peachland. Originating on Friday evening, the Bald Range wildfire expanded rapidly to cover roughly 50 square kilometres. The blaze swept through the rural settlement of Faulder before advancing approximately 15 kilometres towards Summerland at high speed. British Columbia Premier David Eby noted that an operational official characterised the rapid growth of the fire as being “like a bomb going off”. “I know many families are facing an unimaginable day today,” Eby stated. “People have lost their homes. And many people have been displaced. Others are waiting for news about loved ones.” Cliff Chapman, director of wildfire operations at the BC Wildfire Service, described conditions throughout the province as “explosive”. Due to fast-moving flames cutting off ground evacuation routes, officials dispatched firefighting helicopters to conduct aerial rescues for trapped residents. The declaration of a emergency grants provincial authorities extraordinary legal powers to enforce travel restrictions, secure emergency temporary housing for evacuees, and coordinate response efforts across affected sectors.

  • | |

    Torrential rain floods low-lying areas of twin cit…

    ByJustpaste.in

    RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD: Torrential rainfall for the second consecutive day has inundated several low-lying areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, disrupting normal life and prompting authorities to step up emergency measures. According to the Managing Director of the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), Shamsabad received the highest rainfall, with 116 millimetres recorded in the area. WASA has declared a rain emergency and cancelled the leave of field staff to ensure an immediate response to any emergency. Heavy machinery has been positioned at vulnerable locations, including Liaquat Bagh, Committee Chowk Underpass, Murree Road, Dhok Khuba, Circular Road and Sadiqabad, to accelerate drainage operations. The agency said the water level in Nala Lai had reached 10.5 feet at Katarian and 8.5 feet at Gowalmandi. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as further rainfall could increase the risk of urban flooding in vulnerable areas. Moreover, Lahore is experiencing hot and humid weather, with the current temperature recorded at 31°C and the maximum expected to reach 35°C. The minimum temperature is likely to remain at 28°C, while humidity stands at 75 percent and winds are blowing at 6 kilometres per hour. The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall in Lahore from August 17 to 20 as part of the sixth monsoon spell, with rain expected across Lahore and other districts of Punjab until August 21. Authorities have warned of possible water accumulation in low-lying areas and urban flooding. In view of the forecast, WASA Lahore has been placed on high alert on the special directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. WASA Vice Chairman Chaudhry Shahbaz Ahmed, DG WASA Punjab Tayyab Fareed, and MD WASA Lahore Ghufran Ahmed have directed officials to ensure that all major roads and underpasses remain clear and drainage operations continue without interruption. DG WASA Punjab directed all field teams to remain fully mobilised, while MD WASA Lahore instructed officials to operate disposal stations on generators in areas facing power outages to ensure uninterrupted drainage operations. The WASA Vice Chairman directed officials to keep pumps at all disposal stations operational and ensure that screens are regularly cleaned to prevent blockages. MD WASA Lahore also directed all Town Directors to closely monitor their respective areas and take immediate action wherever necessary. Meanwhile, WASA Lahore has released the latest rainfall record, with 21mm recorded at the Nishtar Town Director Office, 2.2mm in Kahna and 25.4mm at the Nishtar Town Disposal Station. The Nishtar Town Disposal Station recorded the highest rainfall among the reported locations. Under the directives of MD WASA Lahore Ghufran Ahmed, continuous monitoring of drainage operations is underway, with field officers and staff remaining fully mobilised to ensure the timely disposal of rainwater. The Meteorological Department has also advised citizens to take precautionary measures during rainfall and avoid unnecessary travel. Relevant authorities have been directed to remain alert and take all necessary measures to deal with any emergency situation.

  • |

    Tom Holland reveals Zendaya secretly powers his skincare routine

    ByJustpaste.in

    Tom Holland has shared that his wife, Zendaya, is the person behind his skincare routine, revealing that he regularly uses her beauty products without paying much attention to what they actually are. In a recent interview, the actor admitted he has little knowledge about the skincare items he applies every day because he never buys them himself. Instead, he said Zendaya takes care of stocking their bathroom with creams, moisturizers, and other essentials. Holland joked that one of the biggest advantages of living with Zendaya is having easy access to her high-end skincare collection. He confessed that he often helps himself to her products, even though he suspects they are much more expensive than he realizes. The actor also laughed about his habit of using more moisturizer than necessary, saying he probably applies far too much each time. Despite that, he appears happy to leave all skincare-related decisions to Zendaya, trusting her choices rather than shopping for products on his own. While Holland is known worldwide for portraying Spider-Man on the big screen, he said his daily skincare routine is surprisingly simple whenever he is not filming. Away from movie sets, he prefers to keep things low-maintenance instead of following an elaborate beauty regimen. According to the actor, his morning routine usually begins with nothing more than splashing water on his face. He added that he makes sure to moisturize and apply sunscreen with SPF protection, but beyond those basics, he does very little to care for his skin. His comments offer fans a glimpse into the couple’s everyday life, showing that even Hollywood stars often rely on one another for simple routines at home. The pair also support each other when it comes to fashion. Before attending major premieres, award shows, or promotional events, they often share opinions about each other’s outfits. Zendaya recently revealed that Holland usually gets an early look at the outfits she plans to wear on the red carpet. Styled by longtime fashion collaborator Law Roach, her looks often become some of the most talked-about moments at public events. She explained that Holland is generally very supportive of her fashion choices and rarely suggests any changes. According to Zendaya, he almost always likes what he sees and has very few notes before she steps onto the red carpet. The couple, who have become one of Hollywood’s most admired pairs, continue to balance their successful careers while supporting each other behind the scenes. Whether it is skincare, fashion, or preparing for major public appearances, Holland and Zendaya appear to share a relaxed and encouraging partnership that fans continue to appreciate. Their latest comments provide another lighthearted look at their relationship, highlighting how small everyday moments—like sharing moisturizer or previewing an outfit—help strengthen their bond beyond the spotlight.

  • | | | | |

    Iran rejects US ceasefire proposal sent through Ir…

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN/WASHINGTON: Iran has reportedly rejected a US-backed ceasefire proposal delivered through Iraq, insisting that any agreement must address the underlying causes of the conflict rather than offer only a temporary halt in fighting, according to a report published by The New York Times. The report said the proposal was conveyed during Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s visit to Tehran after meetings with US officials in Washington. Acting as an intermediary, the Iraqi leader is said to have relayed Washington’s message in an effort to ease rising military tensions between Iran and the United States. According to the report, Iranian officials made it clear that a short-term ceasefire would not be acceptable unless it included concrete solutions to the broader disputes driving the conflict, particularly issues surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes. While the full details of the reported US proposal were not disclosed, Iranian officials were quoted as saying that a temporary pause in hostilities would do little to resolve the crisis without addressing Tehran’s core strategic concerns. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the Iraqi prime minister had briefed Tehran on his discussions in Washington and shared his observations from the visit. However, Araghchi emphasized that communication channels between Iran and the United States already exist through several regional mediators. “The issue is not the delivery of messages,” Araghchi said, according to Iranian media. “The real problem is Washington’s approach.” He accused the United States of pursuing what he described as an “unreasonable, greedy and controlling” policy that has fueled the current crisis. The report added that Tehran remains committed to its long-standing strategic demands and is unwilling to accept any agreement that it believes undermines Iran’s national interests or regional position. As of the time of publication, the US government had not issued an official response to the New York Times report or to the statements attributed to Iranian officials. The details of the alleged proposal have also not been independently verified. Diplomatic efforts involving Iraq, Qatar, Pakistan, and other regional countries are continuing behind the scenes in an attempt to reduce tensions and prevent a wider regional conflict. However, political analysts say deep disagreements between Tehran and Washington continue to limit the prospects for a breakthrough. The reported rejection underscores the significant obstacles facing mediation efforts, particularly as disputes over regional security, sanctions, and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved. With military tensions still high and both sides maintaining firm public positions, observers believe a comprehensive diplomatic solution remains difficult despite ongoing regional mediation initiatives.

  • | | |

    15 newborns killed in fire at PIMS nursery in Isla…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: At least 15 newborn babies were killed after a fire broke out at the nursery of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad early Wednesday morning. According to rescue officials, the fire erupted at around 6:45am on the third floor of the hospital’s Mother and Child Health (MCH) ward. The blaze reportedly started after an air-conditioning unit exploded and spread rapidly through the nursery. PIMS authorities said 16 babies were present in the nursery when the fire broke out. Fifteen newborns died in the incident, while one baby was successfully rescued. Rescue officials said the fire was brought under control and cooling operations were initiated afterward. Six fire engines and four ambulances took part in the rescue operation after emergency teams reached the hospital soon after receiving the alert. According to the district administration, 14 babies suffered severe burns in the incident. An investigation committee headed by the additional deputy commissioner has been formed to determine the exact cause of the fire and establish how the tragedy occurred. The MCH ward was later sealed as authorities began examining the scene. Parents of the deceased babies alleged that hospital staff were not present inside the incubation centre when the fire broke out. The allegations are expected to form part of the investigation into the incident. Federal Minister for Health Mustafa Kamal confirmed that at least 14 deaths had been reported, while other officials put the death toll at 15. He said the Director General Health and hospital secretary were present at the facility and were coordinating with the families of the victims. Speaking about the incident, Kamal said the fire started at around 6:45am following an explosion in an air-conditioning unit. He said the blaze spread extremely quickly and the hospital’s electricity supply was also disrupted immediately after the explosion. The minister said doctors and staff were present in the intensive care area at the time. According to him, some staff members went to call the rescue service, but the fire spread rapidly before the situation could be brought under control. He added that the hospital’s firefighting equipment was functioning and that PIMS was already operating beyond its normal capacity.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *