World

Pakistan Economic Crisis: Long queues seen at new Tim Hortons store in Lahore; Twitter reacts

February 14, 2023
Bharat Times

Pakistan is on the verge of going into default, to put it mildly. Inflation in the country is at the highest level in 45 years. Even necessities like food and water are out of reach for many. However, viral photos of long queues at the cash-strapped country’s first Tim Hortons coffee outlet have left internet users divided. The popular coffee store opened its first outlet in Lahore over the weekend. Pictures and videos showing the coffee craze in Lahore have sparked outrage on the internet as many Pakistanis expressed their outrage at how their country’s elite have no qualms about buying expensive coffee amid an economic crisis. The economy of Pakistan is currently in a bad state. As of February 9, its foreign exchange reserves have come down to $3 billion. Pakistan’s currency (PKR) has come down to a record low. Petrol and diesel prices are at a record high in the country.

A Dawn reporter shared on Twitter a video of a long line at a Tim Hortons store at night. The caption of the post read, “On one hand the poor queue up for a bag of subsidized flour and the rich queue up for Tim Horton’s coffee. If Star Bucks and Pret A Manger are eyeing Pakistan, then FBR should think about taxing those people who are enjoying Europe in Pakistan without paying a single penny.”

ALSO READ: After flour and chicken, tea prices skyrocket in cash-strapped Pakistan

Another user supporting the Tim Hortons craze wrote, “Somebody tweeted that Lahoris should focus on working on their accent instead of buying Tim Hortons and I’m just trying to make sense of it.. .lol if we want to try something new you are Mai.” What’s up with your drink, Razia?

One user compared visuals of a Tim Horton’s line to a crowd of people waiting to get their dough. The two sides of Pakistan are ‘Tim Hortons’ and ‘Maida’, he said.

A second user said, “Suffering from floods; Power shortage; Leading to blackouts; Increase in fuel, petrol prices; Gas shortage, no gas at night; Flour shortage; Price hike; Inflation and we for coffee.” Standing in line; PSL celebrations and matches.”

A third user said, “People of Pakistan – The opening of Tim Hortons is not going to worsen the economic and social disparities of a country that is run by corrupt political leaders to drive their agenda. Tax the rich, socialize.” Reform, educate your youth.” Give them employment.”