ISLAMABAD( The COW News Digital)The federal government of Pakistan has announced a significant hike in petroleum product prices, sparking public concern as inflation continues to weigh heavily on consumers. The revised prices will take effect from July 16, 2025, and will remain in place for the next 15 days.
According to a notification issued by the Finance Division, the increase comes following recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and other relevant ministries.
Under the new pricing structure, the price of petrol has been raised by Rs5.36 per liter. This brings the per-liter cost from Rs266.79 to Rs272.15. Meanwhile, high-speed diesel (HSD) has seen an even steeper increase of Rs11.37 per liter — jumping from Rs272.98 to Rs284.35.
The government, however, announced slight relief in the deregulated petroleum market. The price of kerosene oil has been reduced by Rs3.10 per liter, while light diesel oil (LDO) is now Rs1.85 per liter cheaper.
This hike is likely to further burden an already struggling population amid rising utility costs, stagnant wages, and a weakened rupee. Transportation costs are expected to rise, along with prices of essential goods and services due to the cascading effects of higher fuel prices.
Economic analysts warn that such frequent fuel price hikes risk fueling inflation, which is currently hovering at historically high levels. “While international oil prices play a role, the main pressure comes from currency devaluation, taxes, and the government’s commitments under IMF-backed economic reforms,” said one financial expert.
Sources within the Finance Ministry stated that the price adjustment was unavoidable due to global market trends, refining costs, and currency exchange rates.
The opposition has strongly criticized the move, calling it another blow to the working class. Civil society and transport associations are also expressing concerns, predicting protests and service disruptions in coming days.
Fuel prices in Pakistan are revised bi-monthly in accordance with global crude oil movements and rupee-dollar parity. The next adjustment is scheduled for the end of July.
With no immediate subsidies or support announced, Pakistanis brace for yet another round of economic hardship driven by soaring fuel costs.
