government raises petrol
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Government raises petrol price despite global decl…

The federal government has increased the price of petrol by Rs4.45 per litre, despite a reported decline in international petroleum prices, according to a notification issued by the Ministry of Energy. The revised fuel prices will come into effect from August 6, 2026.

The latest notification states that the new prices have been determined in line with the pricing mechanism recommended by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and approved by the federal government.

Under the revised rates, the price of petrol has increased from Rs328.56 to Rs333.01 per litre, representing an increase of Rs4.45 per litre. The decision comes only a day after the government had announced lower fuel prices for August 5.

In contrast, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been reduced by Rs2.00 per litre. Following the reduction, the retail price of diesel has declined from Rs385.86 to Rs383.86 per litre, providing limited relief to transport operators and commercial users who rely heavily on diesel.

According to government sources, the increase in petrol prices is linked to adjustments in the petroleum levy. The government has reportedly increased the petroleum levy on high-speed diesel by Rs1.44 per litre, raising it from Rs70.86 to Rs72.30 per litre. Officials say such adjustments form part of the government’s broader fiscal strategy while maintaining the petroleum pricing framework.

The announcement has drawn attention because global crude oil prices have softened in recent weeks, leading many consumers to expect a reduction in domestic fuel prices. However, local retail fuel prices are influenced by several factors in addition to international oil prices, including exchange rate fluctuations, taxes, petroleum levy, transportation costs, and other government-imposed charges.

The revised fuel prices are expected to affect transportation expenses, logistics costs, and overall inflation, as petrol remains a key commodity for private motorists and commercial activities across Pakistan.

The government had previously announced reduced prices for August 5, lowering petrol by Rs3.39 per litre and high-speed diesel by Rs4.07 per litre. However, the latest notification revises those rates, resulting in a fresh increase in petrol prices while providing only a modest reduction in diesel prices.

The new pricing structure will remain in effect until the government announces its next scheduled review of petroleum product prices.

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