Key Takeaways
- Petrol price increased by Rs5.44 per litre, HSD by Rs31.05.
- New prices effective from July 18 to July 20, 2026.
- Daily fuel pricing based on international market trends.
The government has announced an increase in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) for a three-day period starting from July 18. According to official notifications, the price of petrol will rise by Rs5.44 per litre to reach Rs316.15 per litre, while HSD will be increased by Rs31.05 per litre to stand at Rs354.35 per litre.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), it was clarified that these new prices would remain effective until July 20, 2026. The increase follows a series of weekly revisions in fuel prices since early March, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and potential oil supply disruptions due to conflicts in the Middle East.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik announced that daily fuel pricing will now be based on international market trends. This change is intended to reflect real-time fluctuations more accurately, ensuring that consumers are informed of price changes promptly. The minister stated that the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) would publish both the prices and the factors leading to these adjustments.
Petrol is primarily used in private transport, small vehicles, rickshaws, and two-wheelers, affecting the middle and lower-middle classes significantly. HSD, on the other hand, is crucial for heavy transport, power plants, and large generators, impacting a broader segment of the population. Monthly sales of petrol and HSD amount to approximately 700,000 to 800,000 tonnes, compared to just 10,000 tonnes of kerosene.
The latest price hike comes after an increase of more than Rs13 per litre for the July 11-17 period. This adjustment was made in response to rising international oil prices and heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Pakistan had previously reviewed petroleum product prices on a weekly basis, but this practice has now been discontinued.
Minister Malik emphasized that the cabinet and Prime Minister have entrusted Ogra with the responsibility of determining fuel prices daily based on market trends. He added that transparency would be enhanced by publishing both the rates and the factors influencing them.
