ISLAMABAD: Consumers in Pakistan may face another increase in fuel prices as the government is expected to revise petroleum rates upward in the upcoming fortnightly review.
According to preliminary estimates, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) could rise by as much as Rs40 per litre, while petrol is likely to see an increase of around Rs10 per litre. The projected hike is linked to higher international oil prices following renewed geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the United States.
Officials said the final price adjustment will depend on international market trends before the government’s official announcement. Authorities are also considering reducing the petroleum levy to lessen the impact of the increase on consumers.
Meanwhile, reports have emerged of diesel shortages in some areas, allegedly caused by traders and dealers stockpiling fuel in anticipation of higher prices. Despite these localized disruptions, officials insist that the country’s overall petroleum reserves remain sufficient.
The situation was discussed during a meeting of the National Committee on Monitoring and Coordination (NCMC), attended by representatives from the Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC), the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra), and other relevant departments.
During the meeting, OCAC officials noted an unusually sharp rise in petroleum sales during the first half of July, suggesting that increased purchases may have been driven by stockpiling rather than normal consumer demand. Ogra also indicated that the abnormal sales trend could be linked to hoarding by some dealers expecting a significant increase in fuel prices.
In response, the NCMC instructed Ogra to intensify market inspections and strengthen enforcement against hoarding and speculative practices. Provincial governments were also directed to take strict action against those involved in creating artificial shortages or disrupting fuel supplies.
Authorities emphasized that Pakistan has adequate petroleum stocks and urged the public to avoid panic buying. Oil marketing companies were directed to maintain uninterrupted fuel availability nationwide.
The anticipated price revision comes as global crude oil markets remain under pressure due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, with Pakistan’s dependence on imported petroleum making domestic fuel prices highly sensitive to international market fluctuations.
