PBS: Sharp Monthly Rise in Health, Education

Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported a significant month-on-month rise in health and education costs across the country, media report said on Thursday.

The PBS found urban health costs increased by 6.99 per cent, while rural health expenses rose by 9.65 per cent during the month.

Medicines experienced a 6.94 per cent increase and therapeutic appliances and medical equipment recorded a 2.19 per cent rise, the PBS report said.

Doctor consultation fees rose by 7.37 per cent, dental services became 8.36 per cent costlier, and medical tests increased by 10.72 per cent.

Hospital services in urban areas recorded a 5.21 per cent increase, while urban education costs rose by 8.24 per cent during the month.

Read More: Pakistan Stock Exchange index slips 0.51%

In rural areas, prices of drugs and medicines rose by 8.35 per cent and clinic fees surged by 16.16 per cent during the month.

Dental services in rural regions increased by 17.13 per cent, medical tests rose 11.13 per cent, and hospital services were 6.88 per cent costlier.

Rural stationery items also became 2.27 per cent more expensive, underscoring the widespread monthly surge in essential services across Pakistan, PBS noted.

Separately, PBS data showed Pakistan’s trade deficit widened to $2.75 billion in July 2025, a 16.02 per cent increase from June 2025.

Exports rose 16.91 per cent in July compared with the same month last year, with shipments valued at $2.697 billion versus $2.307 billion previously.