Eid-ul-Adha Boosts Demand for Refrigerators and Deep Freezers Amid Falling Prices

Rawalpindi:With Eid-ul-Adha approaching, the demand for refrigerators and deep freezers typically surges across Pakistan. However, due to inflation and the high cost of electronic appliances over the past few years, this year’s consumer enthusiasm has been relatively subdued.

Shahine Saleem, who has been dealing in electronics at Rawalpindi’s Bara Bazaar for the past 12 years, noted that demand for deep freezers rises significantly during Eid-ul-Adha, especially since it falls in the peak of summer. “Traditionally, the season boosts our sales, but over the last three years, this trend has weakened due to inflation,” he said.

However, things may be looking up. Shahine pointed out that with inflation now easing and the economy showing signs of stability, the prices of many electronic items — including refrigerators and deep freezers — have dropped by around **Rs. 10,000**. “This is a positive sign for the electronics business. If the economy continues to improve, we hope prices will return to where they were three or four years ago,” he added.

Ahmed Tanveer, manager at Mian Electronics in Chandni Chowk, also confirmed the trend. “Last year, prices were at their peak during Eid, and it badly impacted business. Thankfully, this time, prices have come down by Rs. 5,000 to 10,000, providing relief to both traders and consumers,” he said.

He attributed the price drop to the State Bank of Pakistan’s recent decision to reduce the interest rate from **22% to 12%**, which has helped lower overall business costs and stimulated the market.

Aamir Atiq, manager of Sharjah Electronics, explained another key reason for the price reduction — the resumption of imports. “Last year, electronic goods were expensive due to import restrictions and a shortage of parts that stalled manufacturing. Now that imports have resumed and production is back on track, prices of most appliances have fallen by Rs. 10,000 to 15,000.”

Overall, while demand remains modest compared to previous years, the declining prices offer a much-needed boost to the electronics sector, and stakeholders are hopeful for continued economic recovery and renewed consumer confidence.