ISLAMABAD – All eyes are on federal government as authorities are set to announce New petroleum prices today on Friday, with expectations of possible reduction fueled by continued declines in global crude oil prices.
Even before official notification, social media platform X and other portals are dominated by hashtag “Petrol at Rs225/Litre,” as thousands of users demanded substantial relief for consumers. The online campaign gathered momentum just hours before the expected announcement, with users arguing that the government should pass on the benefits of lower international oil prices instead of keeping domestic fuel prices unchanged.
The public demand comes after last week’s controversial decision by the government to maintain petroleum prices despite a noticeable decline in international oil markets. The move triggered widespread criticism from consumers, transporters, and social media users, who questioned why falling global prices were not reflected at the pump.
Adding pressure, opposition parties also called for petrol to be reduced to Rs225 per litre, warning that the party will launch nationwide protests and strikes if the government fails to provide meaningful relief.
International crude oil prices have continued their downward trend over the past week, strengthening expectations of a reduction in domestic fuel prices. Brent crude, which was trading near $72.6 per barrel last Friday, is currently hovering around $71.8 to $72 per barrel, marking another weekly decline.
The drop is even more relevant when compared with period during which Pakistan’s current fuel prices were fixed. At that time, Brent crude was trading near $77 per barrel. Since then, international prices have fallen by approximately $5 per barrel, increasing expectations that the government may now have room to reduce petroleum prices.
At present, the official prices remain Petrol is Rs299.50 per litre while Diesel price remained at Rs311.47 per litre. According to market estimates, if the government decides not to increase the Petroleum Development Levy and passes on the benefit of lower international prices to consumers, petrol and diesel prices could decline by approximately Rs5 to Rs15 per litre.
However, industry experts caution that these figures remain estimates. The final adjustment will depend on OGRA’s pricing calculations, import costs, freight charges, exchange rate movements, petroleum levy, climate levy, and other applicable taxes.
Pakistan reviews petroleum prices on a regular basis through the Ministry of Finance following recommendations prepared by OGRA. The revised prices become effective after the issuance of an official notification.
With global oil prices continuing to soften and public pressure mounting both online and politically, today’s announcement is expected to be closely watched across the country.
The government’s decision will determine whether the recent decline in international crude oil prices translates into relief for millions of Pakistani consumers, or whether fuel prices will once again remain unchanged despite growing public demand.
Petrol Prices in Pakistan may drop by around Rs15 Per Litre tomorrow
