Middle East tensions and the Iran conflict have pushed petrol prices in Pakistan to Rs321 per litre. Government warns of supply risks as Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten oil imports.
Rising tensions in the Middle East have begun to affect Pakistan’s economy, with a sharp increase in petroleum prices across the country.
The government has increased the prices of both petrol and diesel by Rs55 per litre, triggering concerns over inflation and supply disruptions.
Following the increase, the new price of petrol in Pakistan stands at Rs321.17 per litre, while diesel is now priced at Rs335.86 per litre.
Pakistan Has 28 Days of Fuel Reserves
Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik stated that Pakistan currently has petroleum reserves sufficient for 28 days. However, he warned that the duration of the crisis remains uncertain due to the escalating regional tensions.
Strait of Hormuz Disruptions Affect Oil Supply
According to officials, Tehran has also targeted Gulf states, causing disruptions in regional maritime routes. As a result, several oil tankers have reportedly halted near the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway considered vital for global oil transportation.
Any disruption in this corridor directly impacts countries like Pakistan that depend heavily on oil imports passing through this route.
Government Warns Against Fuel Hoarding
Prime Minister of Pakistan has directed provincial governments to take strict legal action against hoarders of petroleum products, warning that artificial shortages will not be tolerated during the crisis.
Authorities have been instructed to monitor fuel supply chains closely to prevent price manipulation and hoarding.
Pakistan’s Oil Dependence on Gulf Countries
Pakistan imports the majority of its oil and gas from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, with most shipments transported through the Strait of Hormuz.
Experts warn that any prolonged disruption in the region could create severe supply chain challenges for Pakistan’s energy sector.
Transport Sector Consumes Majority of Fuel
More than 80 percent of petroleum consumption in Pakistan comes from the transport sector, making fuel prices highly sensitive to international oil market fluctuations.
With the latest price hike, experts say the impact will extend beyond transportation costs.
Impact on Food Supply and Industrial Production
Higher fuel prices are expected to affect Pakistan’s food supply chain, industrial production, and logistics sectors, potentially pushing inflation even higher in the coming months.
Increased transportation costs could lead to higher prices for essential goods across the country.
Petrol Prices in Neighboring Countries
Petrol prices in Pakistan are significantly higher compared to several neighboring countries.
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India: Approximately Rs110 per litre
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Bangladesh: Around 116 Taka per litre
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Sri Lanka: About Rs293 per litre
The comparison highlights the growing burden of fuel prices on Pakistan’s economy amid ongoing regional instability.
