Islamabad: Pakistani consumers may see a slight relief at the pump starting September 1, as the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has indicated a minor reduction in petroleum product prices for the next fortnight.
According to official sources, OGRA has completed its price review and will submit its recommendations late tonight to the Ministry of Petroleum, which will forward them to the Finance Division. A final decision will be taken after consultation with the Prime Minister.
If approved, the revised rates are expected to bring down the price of petrol by 61 paisas per liter, offering a small but welcome reduction amid ongoing inflationary pressures. The price of high-speed diesel (HSD), which plays a crucial role in agriculture and transportation, is projected to decrease by Rs 3.13 per liter.
Similarly, kerosene oil, widely used in low-income households and in remote areas of the country, is expected to see a reduction of Rs 1.57 per liter, while light diesel oil (LDO) may drop by Rs 2.61 per liter.
Although the proposed cuts are modest compared to earlier price hikes, experts note that any downward adjustment offers some relief for consumers struggling with rising living costs. Diesel’s reduction is seen as particularly significant, as it may ease the financial burden on the agriculture sector and transportation services, indirectly benefiting food supply chains.
The Ministry of Finance will review OGRA’s calculations before issuing an official notification. Government insiders suggest that the decision will be formally announced late on August 31, taking effect from September 1, 2025.
Petroleum prices in Pakistan are revised every 15 days, based on international oil market trends and exchange rate fluctuations. Over the past year, volatile global oil prices have translated into steep fuel adjustments in Pakistan, heavily impacting households and businesses alike.
While today’s development points to a minor relief, analysts caution that global crude market fluctuations, combined with the strength of the Pakistani rupee against the US dollar, will continue to dictate future fuel adjustments. Consumers, therefore, should not expect a long-term decline.
For now, however, motorists, farmers, and industries await the official government notification that could slightly ease their monthly fuel expenses.
