ISLAMABAD: The federal government on Monday slashed the price of high-speed diesel by Rs14 per litre for the next fortnight, offering modest relief to transporters and the agriculture sector, while keeping petrol prices unchanged despite volatility in global oil markets.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), the new prices will take effect from Dec. 16 for the next 15 days, following recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra).
The price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been reduced to Rs265.65 per liter from Rs279.65, reflecting a sharp downward adjustment. Petrol, officially termed motor spirit, will continue to sell at Rs263.45 per liter, with no increase or decrease announced for the period.
Diesel is widely used in freight transport, agriculture machinery and power generation, making its price a critical driver of inflation, particularly food prices. The reduction is expected to ease cost pressures on farmers and logistics operators, though economists caution that its broader inflationary impact may remain limited if other energy costs stay elevated.
Petrol prices, which directly affect private transport and urban commuters, were left untouched, signaling the government’s cautious approach amid fiscal constraints under ongoing economic reforms.
Pakistan adjusts fuel prices on a fortnightly basis, taking into account international oil prices, exchange rate movements and tax considerations. In recent months, fuel pricing has become a politically sensitive issue, as households grapple with high living costs and sluggish income growth.
