Rising Prices of Second-Hand Winter Clothes Affect Families in Rawalpindi
In Rawalpindi, Pakistan, the cost of second-hand winter clothing has surged by up to 60% compared to last year, making it difficult for low-income families to afford essential winter wear. Jackets, coats, and shawls have become significantly more expensive, impacting many families’ ability to purchase these items. Larger garment retailers are offering discounts of 10 to 25% on their remaining winter stock, but the price increases are most noticeable in traditional markets. Handmade quilts and rugs have also seen price hikes due to rising production costs.
New taxes and customs duties on imported second-hand clothing from Europe have made even the cheapest options unaffordable for many. Despite numerous stalls selling winter essentials throughout the city, the financial burden remains heavy. Popular markets like Raja Bazaar, Jamia Masjid Road, and Banni Chowk are hosting sales, but the discounts are insufficient to ease the strain.
Historically, low-income families have depended on inexpensive second-hand clothing from abroad. However, new tariffs and increased transportation costs from Karachi to Rawalpindi have made it challenging to find affordable warmth. Interestingly, wealthier individuals are also shopping at used clothing stalls, buying items to clean and refurbish. In flea markets, children’s sweaters cost between PKR 350 and PKR 600, while coats and jackets range from PKR 1,000 to PKR 2,000. Adult sweaters are priced from PKR 600 to PKR 1,000, and jackets from PKR 2,000 to PKR 3,000. In contrast, new children’s winter clothing in larger stores costs between PKR 4,500 and PKR 10,000.
Ashfaq Bacha, a second-hand clothing dealer, noted that increased customs duties and transportation costs, driven by high fuel prices, have raised prices. He believes removing these taxes could reduce costs by 40 to 50%. Local resident Sajid Mehmood expressed frustration, saying, “The tax on everything essential for the poor has made our lives even harder. If the government removes the tax on old clothes, it would provide much-needed relief.”
Doubts Revealed
Rawalpindi -: Rawalpindi is a city in Pakistan. It is located near the capital city, Islamabad, and is known for its historical sites and bustling markets.
Second-Hand Winter Clothes -: Second-hand winter clothes are clothes that have been used by someone else before and are sold again. They are usually cheaper than new clothes and include items like jackets and shawls to keep warm in winter.
60% Increase -: A 60% increase means that the prices have gone up by more than half of what they used to be. For example, if a jacket cost 100 rupees before, it might now cost 160 rupees.
Low-Income Families -: Low-income families are families that do not earn a lot of money. They often have to budget carefully to afford basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
Taxes and Customs Duties -: Taxes and customs duties are extra charges added by the government on goods, especially those coming from other countries. These charges can make items more expensive for buyers.
Discounts from Larger Retailers -: Discounts from larger retailers mean that big shops are reducing their prices to attract more customers. Even with these discounts, some people still find it hard to afford the clothes.
Wealthier Individuals -: Wealthier individuals are people who have more money and can usually afford more expensive things. However, even they are looking for cheaper options like second-hand clothes due to high prices.
Removing Taxes -: Removing taxes means not charging the extra money on goods. If taxes are removed, the prices of clothes could go down, making them more affordable for everyone.