Islamabad – Pakistani consumers may soon receive much-needed relief as the federal government is expected to announce a reduction in petrol and diesel prices for the next pricing cycle, following a downward trend in international oil markets.
According to industry sources and preliminary assessments, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has prepared recommendations suggesting a cut in the ex-depot prices of major petroleum products. The proposed reduction is linked to easing global crude oil prices and relatively stable exchange rate conditions over the past fortnight.
Petrol prices are expected to be reduced by several rupees per litre, offering direct relief to private vehicle owners and daily commuters. Meanwhile, high-speed diesel (HSD) — a key fuel for transport, agriculture and industrial sectors — is also likely to become cheaper, a move that could help ease transportation costs and indirectly soften inflationary pressures across the economy.
In addition to petrol and diesel, prices of kerosene oil and light diesel oil (LDO) are also expected to see downward adjustments. Lower kerosene prices would particularly benefit low-income households and small businesses that rely on it for heating and cooking, especially during colder months.
Officials say the final decision will be taken by the federal government after reviewing OGRA’s summary, with the revised prices expected to take effect in the coming days. Fuel prices in Pakistan are typically revised every two weeks, keeping local rates closely aligned with international market movements and domestic fiscal considerations.
Economic analysts note that while any reduction in fuel prices is a positive development, its impact on overall inflation will depend on whether the relief is passed on through lower transport and commodity costs. They also caution that sustained price stability will require broader economic management, including energy sector reforms and fiscal discipline.
For now, motorists, transporters and businesses are cautiously optimistic, hoping that the anticipated price cut will provide some breathing space amid persistent cost-of-living pressures and rising household expenses.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.