By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD:: Pakistan’s inflation rate rose further in May 2026, reaching its highest level in nearly two years and adding to pressure on households already struggling with rising living costs.
According to the monthly report released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, annual inflation climbed to 11.66 per cent in May, marking the highest level since June 2024. The increase reflects a continued upward trend in consumer prices across both urban and rural areas.
The report showed that inflation increased by 0.52 per cent on a month-on-month basis compared with April. Annual inflation had stood at 10.89 per cent in April 2026, while the corresponding figure for May last year was significantly lower at 3.5 per cent.
The latest data indicates that prices of essential goods and services continued to rise, placing additional strain on household budgets. Economists have linked the increase to higher fuel costs, energy prices and broader inflationary pressures affecting the economy.
The Bureau of Statistics said average inflation for the period from July 2025 to May 2026 was recorded at 6.69 per cent.
Urban areas experienced a monthly increase of 0.68 per cent in inflation during May, while rural areas recorded a rise of 0.30 per cent. On an annual basis, inflation in urban centres reached 11.79 per cent, compared with 11.48 per cent in rural regions.
The latest figures are likely to intensify concerns over the cost of living, with consumers and businesses facing continued economic challenges in the months ahead.
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