Current Milk Prices in Pakistan (October 2025)
The cost of milk in Pakistan is not a single fixed figure but depends on several factors, primarily whether it is purchased as fresh (loose) or branded packaged (UHT) milk. The recent economic climate, including inflation and higher production costs, has led to a notable increase in prices for consumers nationwide.
Price of Loose (Fresh) Milk
Fresh milk, sold by local dairies and milkmen, is generally the more economical option for many households. The price varies geographically, with urban centers often facing higher costs due to additional transportation and distribution expenses. In October 2025, the average rates are as follows:
- Urban Areas (e.g., Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad): Fresh milk is priced between PKR 160 and PKR 200 per liter.
- Rural Areas: Prices are typically lower, ranging from PKR 120 to PKR 150 per liter, reflecting the proximity to farms and lower distribution costs.
Price of Packaged (UHT) Milk
Packaged milk, processed and sold by major brands, offers a longer shelf life and guaranteed quality control, but comes at a higher price point. This segment has also seen price adjustments due to taxes and increased costs.
- Olper's 1L: PKR 360
- Nestle Milk Pak 1L: Approximately PKR 350-359, depending on the retailer
- Nurpur 1L: Roughly PKR 335-345
- Dayfresh 1L: Around PKR 340
Factors Influencing Milk Prices
Several complex factors contribute to the dynamic pricing of milk in Pakistan:
- Inflation: The overall economic inflation in the country directly impacts the cost of essential commodities, including dairy products.
- Animal Fodder Costs: The price of animal feed has surged due to a number of issues, including widespread flooding impacting crops. This increases the cost for farmers, which is then passed on to consumers.
- Transportation Costs: Unstable fuel prices lead to higher transportation costs for both fresh and packaged milk, from farms to processing plants and ultimately to retail stores.
- Government Taxes: The imposition of government taxes, such as the 18% General Sales Tax (GST) on packaged milk, directly increases its retail price.
- Seasonal Supply: Milk production naturally fluctuates with seasons. It tends to decrease in the summer months, while demand often rises, leading to temporary price increases.
- Supply Chain Inefficiencies: Low farm-gate milk prices, inefficiencies, and waste within the supply chain can also add to the final retail price.
Comparison Table: Loose vs. Packaged Milk
| Feature | Loose Milk (Fresh) | Packaged (UHT) Milk |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price | PKR 160-200/liter (urban) | PKR 330-360/liter |
| Quality Control | Varies; hygiene and purity can be inconsistent | Standardized and processed under controlled conditions |
| Shelf Life | Short (requires refrigeration) | Long (several months) |
| Availability | Local dairies, milkmen | Supermarkets, grocery stores, online platforms |
| Purity Concerns | Potential for adulteration by vendors | Reliable purity due to processing and packaging |
Regional Price Variations
The price of both loose and packaged milk can differ based on the city and specific market. In major metropolitan areas like Karachi and Islamabad, the prices tend to be higher due to logistics and higher overheads. Conversely, smaller towns and rural settings often benefit from lower prices because of reduced transportation costs and more direct access to dairy farms. For instance, while a liter of branded UHT milk might cost PKR 360 in Islamabad, the price might be slightly different in other areas due to varying distributor margins or retail strategies.
Learn more about milk market trends in Pakistan from Statista
Conclusion
The price of 1 liter milk in Pakistan reflects a dual-market reality: a more affordable but less consistent loose milk sector and a more expensive but standardized packaged milk sector. The recent price increases observed in October 2025 are driven by a combination of macroeconomic factors like inflation, rising production costs (especially fodder and transportation), and government taxation. Consumers must weigh the trade-offs between cost, convenience, and quality when making their purchase. The ongoing price volatility underscores the broader challenges facing Pakistan's food and dairy sector, which continues to impact household budgets across the country.
