The federal government has defended its decision to maintain petrol and diesel prices at current levels despite a decline in international oil prices.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the government was not favouring any sector and was making decisions based on national economic considerations and international commitments.
Under the latest review, petrol prices will remain at Rs299.50 per litre, while high-speed diesel will continue to be sold at Rs311.47 per litre until further notice.
The minister said fuel pricing decisions are made after considering international oil trends, exchange rates, taxes, levies and other financial obligations faced by the country.
According to official figures, international petrol prices fluctuated between approximately $90 and $98 per barrel during the previous week, while diesel prices traded between around $105 and $109 per barrel.
Despite the decline in global oil prices, the government decided not to pass on immediate relief to consumers, a move that has triggered criticism from opposition politicians and economic analysts.
The petroleum minister insisted that the government remains committed to transferring the benefits of lower international prices to consumers whenever financial conditions allow.
He also highlighted the government’s fuel pricing record, saying that petrol and diesel prices have fallen substantially from their peak levels earlier this year.
According to government figures, petrol prices have been reduced by around Rs155 per litre from their highest point, while diesel prices have fallen by approximately Rs200 per litre.
Critics, however, argue that domestic fuel prices remain too high compared with international market conditions.
Several opposition leaders questioned why consumers are not receiving additional relief despite global oil prices returning to levels seen before recent regional tensions disrupted energy markets.
Political opponents accused the government of protecting commercial interests instead of prioritising ordinary citizens struggling with inflation and rising living costs.
Analysts note that fuel prices have a direct impact on transportation costs, food prices and overall inflation throughout the economy.
Petrol is widely used by private motorists, motorcycles, rickshaws and small businesses, making changes in its price particularly important for middle and lower-income households.
Diesel plays an even larger role in the national economy as it powers trucks, buses, agricultural machinery, factories and electricity generators.
As a result, changes in diesel prices often influence transportation charges and the prices of essential goods across the country.
Earlier this year, fuel prices reached record levels after global energy markets were disrupted by conflict-related tensions in the Gulf region and uncertainty over shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
At one stage, petrol prices climbed above Rs458 per litre, while diesel prices crossed Rs520 per litre before the government introduced significant reductions through tax adjustments and lower petroleum levies.
The government continues to review petroleum prices on a regular basis in response to changes in international markets and domestic economic conditions.
Officials say future price revisions will depend on global oil movements, currency fluctuations and the country’s fiscal requirements.
