Government likely to raise petrol prices by Rs10

The government is set to raise petrol and diesel prices again this week as global crude oil rates climb steadily.

Experts warn that petrol may rise by at least Rs 10 per litre following a surge in international oil markets. Brent crude hovers near $110 per barrel while US crude trades above $100, driven by supply shortages and geopolitical tensions. Last week the cabinet approved increases that pushed diesel to Rs414.58 and petrol to Rs414.78 per litre after hikes of Rs15 and Rs14.92 respectively.

Now the upcoming review could add fresh increments, which will raise transport costs and push up prices of essential goods across the country. Consumers already feel the pinch as each fuel rise directly feeds into higher inflation and daily living expenses.

Transporters warn that fare hikes are inevitable if fuel prices climb further, affecting commuters and supply chains alike. Market vendors and small businesses expect higher input costs, which will likely be passed on to shoppers soon. Agricultural producers also face rising costs for diesel-run machinery, which could raise food prices ahead.

Officials consider measures to ease immediate pain, such as targeted subsidies or short-term relief for vulnerable groups, but no decision has been announced yet. Meanwhile, analysts urge long-term policy shifts to reduce import dependence, including improving public transport, promoting cleaner fuels, and incentivising local energy production.

Consumers are advised to budget cautiously and expect higher transportation and commodity costs in coming weeks. Motorists may delay non-essential travel and businesses might review logistics to limit expenses. If global crude eases, domestic fuel rates could stabilise, yet experts stress that current geopolitical risks make further volatility likely. Citizens and policymakers now face the immediate task of managing economic strain while exploring durable solutions to Pakistan’s fuel vulnerability.