As Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, demand for new currency notes has surged in several Pakistani markets, with vendors selling them at prices higher than their face value.
Shopkeepers have set up stalls and handcarts across busy bazaars, offering bundles of fresh notes to customers eager to use them during the festival. Markets in Raja Bazaar, Saddar, and Commercial Market have been particularly active.
According to reports, a bundle of Rs. 10 notes worth Rs. 1,000 is being sold for Rs. 1,500, with an additional Rs. 500 charged for the new notes. Old Rs. 10 notes of the same denomination are being sold for Rs. 1,300. Similarly, bundles of Rs. 20 notes worth Rs. 2,000 are going for Rs. 2,600.
The trend continues with larger denominations: twenty Rs. 50 notes are being sold for Rs. 1,300, while ten new Rs. 100 notes are priced at Rs. 1,400.
The surge in demand for fresh banknotes reflects the cultural importance of giving new money during Eid, especially to children and relatives, a tradition that is widely observed across Pakistan.
Authorities and financial experts have warned the public to be cautious when purchasing notes from unofficial sellers, as the market for higher-than-face-value notes can attract counterfeit activity.
