Consumers across Pakistan have been deprived of expected relief after the federal government increased the petroleum levy, while keeping fuel prices unchanged for the next fortnight. According to reports, the petroleum levy on petrol has been raised by Rs 4.62 per litre. At the same time, high-speed diesel saw an increase of Re0.80 per litre, adding further pressure on already strained household budgets.
The levy on High Octane Blending Component was also increased by Rs4.62 per litre, taking the total petroleum levy on petrol and HOBC to Rs84.27 per litre. Meanwhile, the levy on high-speed diesel has climbed to Rs 76.21 per litre. In addition to this, the government continues to collect a Climate Support Levy of Rs2.50 per litre on petrol, diesel, and HOBC.
Fuel costs remain elevated due to the Inland Freight Equalisation Margin, currently set at Rs8.97 per litre on petrol and Rs7.25 per litre on diesel. Despite declining international oil prices, industry experts believe the decision prioritizes government revenue while leaving consumers and transporters burdened.
Official notifications confirmed that petrol and diesel prices will remain fixed at Rs253.17 and Rs257.08 per litre respectively until the end of January. While petrol directly affects middle and lower-middle-class commuters, higher diesel prices have a broader inflationary impact, influencing transport costs, agricultural expenses, and food prices nationwide.
