Retailers Pocket Huge Profits During Ramazan Despite Rs. 45 Million Fine

The Karachi Commissioner’s price-checking teams have imposed fines amounting to Rs. 45 million on 4,345 retailers until the 27th of Ramazan, higher than the Rs. 31 million collected from over 3,500 retailers during the same period last year. Despite the increased enforcement, market prices remain far above official rates, reported Dawn. The crackdown led to the sealing of 161 shops and the arrest of 155 profiteers this year compared to 2024 when only 58 shops were sealed and no arrests were made. Authorities also expanded price-checking visits to 30,371 shops, more than doubling last year’s 12,304 inspections. Despite these measures, a random market survey reveals significant price violations. Poultry live bird is selling at Rs. 510-560 per kg, far exceeding the official rate of Rs. 420 per kg. Similarly, beef with bones is priced at Rs. 1,200 per kg against the official Rs. 750, while boneless veal is being sold at Rs. 1,600 per kg, far above the Rs. 1,050 control rate. Flour, milk, and fresh produce are also being sold at inflated prices, with bananas reaching Rs. 350 per dozen against the official rate of Rs. 161, and potatoes being sold at Rs. 80 per kg despite a government cap of Rs. 40. Shoppers have expressed frustration, noting that price gouging continues unchecked in many areas despite the official actions.