ISLAMABAD: Fuel prices in Pakistan are expected to rise again in the coming days as the government prepares to adjust rates in line with increasing global oil costs.
The decision was discussed in a high-level meeting chaired by Muhammad Aurangzeb, with participation from provincial chief ministers and senior officials. Authorities indicated that the final adjustment will depend on updated international market trends, with the possibility of fully passing on the impact to consumers.
At present, officials estimate a significant shortfall roughly Rs100 per litre on petrol and more than Rs200 per litre on diesel. Revised pricing is expected after fresh calculations by Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority and the Petroleum Division.
The government has already allocated around Rs129 billion in fuel subsidies over the past three weeks and aims to limit the total to Rs158 billion. Both Asif Ali Zardari and Shehbaz Sharif have urged provinces to help share the financial burden.
Under the proposed formula, Punjab and Sindh will contribute based on population size, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan will share costs according to fuel consumption levels.
Relief measures are also being planned, including subsidised fuel for motorcyclists and three-wheeler users under a nationwide scheme. Additionally, Sindh intends to assist farmers through its Hari Card programme, with other provinces considering similar initiatives.
Officials estimate the weekly subsidy requirement at Rs15–18 billion, which could climb to Rs30 billion depending on market fluctuations. Provinces have also agreed to keep BRT fares unchanged for now, although concerns persist about the broader impact on people outside major urban centres.
