The recurring surge in food prices ahead of Ramazan highlights a systemic failure in market regulation. While demand naturally rises, current price hikes are driven largely by unchecked greed and a fine-and-forget penalty system that fails to deter profiteers. Relying on temporary subsidies and market raids is insufficient. The government must leverage its digitisation drive to implement a transparent, year-round monitoring system that tracks prices from wholesale to retail. Without holding the major actors in the supply chain accountable, the financial burden on the people will continue to worsen every year.
Muhammad Fayyaz
Peshawar
