As Eid approaches, the demand for new currency notes has surged across Pakistan, joining the seasonal rush for new clothes and shoes. Banks and open markets alike are witnessing heightened activity as people try to get fresh notes for gifting and personal use.

According to sources, banks are providing limited new notes under varying conditions, leaving many people to rely on the open market to obtain them. Street vendors and market stalls are reportedly selling new notes at significantly higher rates than their face value.

In major cities, unofficial prices for new currency notes are soaring. Copies of 10-rupee notes are being sold for 600 to 700 rupees, 20-rupee notes for 700 to 800 rupees, 50-rupee notes for 1,000 to 1,200 rupees, and 100-rupee notes for 800 to 1,000 rupees. This steep markup reflects the eagerness of citizens to have fresh notes for Eid gifts and personal use.

Also Read: LPG prices surge sharply across Pakistan amid fuel crisis

Consumers say that new notes are considered essential during Eid, as handing over old, worn-out notes with gifts or Eid allowances feels inappropriate. The desire to present gifts in fresh notes has created a robust demand, which vendors are exploiting.

Officials have warned citizens to remain cautious when purchasing currency from unofficial channels, as the high demand has also given rise to counterfeit risks. Meanwhile, banks continue to encourage people to obtain new notes through legitimate channels, though supplies remain limited during the busy holiday season.