LAHORE: The government of Punjab has instructed the Punjab Agricultural Marketing Regulatory Authority (PAMRA) and all Deputy Commissioners to stabilize prices of essential commodities during Ramazan, with the 20th of Shaban set as the benchmark date for price fixation, amid growing concerns over arbitrary increases in fruit and vegetable prices.
In an official communication, the Directorate General of Enforcement (Prices & Consumer Protection) highlighted that unjustified price hikes during Ramazan place an undue burden on the public, undermine relief efforts, and contribute to market instability.
The authority has instructed market committees to notify and strictly enforce daily prices of fruits and vegetables based on the 20th Shaban benchmark. Officials have been tasked with continuous monitoring of market arrivals, auctions, and retail points throughout the month.
The directives also emphasized strict action against hoarding, stock withholding, artificial shortages, and supply manipulation. Immediate legal and administrative measures will be taken against violators under relevant laws.
Furthermore, all deputy commissioners have been directed to convene meetings of district price control committees between February 5 and 12, in line with price control council decisions, to ensure uniform enforcement of notified prices during Ramazan.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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