The Ministry of Finance has reported that over Rs 3 trillion in taxes have been collected from mobile phone users in the last five years. The total revenue from this sector stands at Rs 3.38 trillion.
As of August 2024, Pakistan has 193.1 million cellular subscribers. Meanwhile, a report from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics highlights a sharp 800% increase in gas prices in just four months.
The prices of basic food items, including sugar, palm oil, and soybean oil, have also risen by more than 50%. This has made it harder for people to afford daily essentials.
The rising costs of gas and electricity, tied to Pakistan’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), have played a major role in driving inflation. Gas tariffs have gone up by as much as 520%, while electricity rates have increased by 75%.
These price hikes have put additional pressure on households, already struggling with a high cost of living. The combination of expensive utilities and soaring food prices has made it increasingly difficult for many families to manage their expenses.
This situation reflects the broader economic challenges Pakistan is facing, as it tries to meet IMF conditions while addressing the concerns of its citizens. For many, the rising costs underline the urgent need for relief measures to ease the financial burden.
