Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a significant decision to keep petroleum product prices unchanged in Pakistan, despite a notable rise in international oil prices. This move comes amid ongoing global economic pressures, including regional tensions affecting energy markets.
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The Prime Minister emphasized his commitment to easing the financial strain on ordinary citizens during these challenging times. The announcement was made on March 13, 2026, honoring a promise to provide relief to the public.
Government’s Relief Strategy Amid Economic Challenges The decision not to hike prices aims to reduce the burden on the common man, who has already faced increases in living costs.
Earlier this month, the government raised petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per litre each, pushing petrol to Rs321.17 per litre and diesel to Rs335.86 per litre due to surging global rates. By holding prices steady now, the administration seeks to offer immediate respite.
PM Shehbaz highlighted that the government is managing the situation through timely policy-making, financial discipline, and austerity measures. These include starting reductions from the elite and government sectors to protect the poor.
Efforts for Supply Stability and Public Support The Prime Minister credited diplomatic and economic teams for securing sufficient crude oil supplies, ensuring no shortages and that no one charges above government-fixed rates. Federal and provincial governments are collaborating to enforce this.
He expressed hope that global conditions would improve, leading to stability in international petroleum prices. The step reflects a people-centric approach, prioritizing public welfare over immediate fiscal pressures from volatile oil markets influenced by regional conflicts.
This relief measure has been welcomed as a positive signal for consumers, transporters, and industries reliant on fuel, potentially helping control inflation in the short term.