The government has banned the export of petroleum products to protect local supplies. It is considering not increasing fuel prices for now despite rising global oil prices. Officials mention a Rs. 389 billion emergency fund in the budget may be used to absorb the impact.
Estimates as of March 12 show petrol could increase by about Rs. 41 per litre and high-speed diesel (HSD) by about Rs. 56 per litre under the current formula. Petrol and HSD are currently priced at about Rs. 322 and Rs. 337 per litre. Kerosene may rise by Rs. 7 and light diesel oil by about Rs. 53 per litre.
Officials said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif made the decision in a meeting attended by Field Marshal Asim Munir. They decided there should be no immediate fuel price hike after the earlier Rs. 55 increase. A final decision will be taken after reviewing global prices on Friday, according to Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik.
Pakistan imports over 95% of its oil from the Middle East, with prices linked to Dubai benchmarks. Officials say petrol and diesel stocks are enough for about 22–23 days. Gas supply to fertilizer plants has been reduced, and gas rationing may return after Eidul Fitr to manage demand.
