QUETTA, Pakistan—Prices of dried fruits have risen sharply in Quetta even before the onset of the winter season, adding to pressure on consumers as demand for the seasonal staples begins to increase.
The price of pine nuts, which sold for between 5,000 and 6,000 Pakistani rupees a kilogram last season, has climbed to about 8,000 rupees. Pistachios are selling for roughly 4,500 rupees a kilogram, while almonds have reached 3,400 rupees.
Prices of walnuts, raisins and dried figs have also increased, with shoppers expressing concern over the cost of goods that are traditionally in high demand during the colder months.
Traders attribute the increases to disruptions at border crossings, higher taxes, rising petrol and diesel prices and increased transportation costs. They say the higher expenses throughout the supply chain are being passed on to consumers.
