by furqanPakistan has transitioned to a daily pricing mechanism for petroleum products to combat market volatility driven by geopolitical tensions. The government had previously accelerated fuel price revisions from a fortnightly to a weekly basis in early March following conflict between the US and Iran; however, recent military exchanges between the two nations prompted this shift to a daily system.
Announcing the federal cabinet’s decision at a joint press conference with Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik stated that the daily adjustment model will enhance pricing transparency without exposing the state to unnecessary financial liabilities.
Under the newly approved mechanism, Ogra will assume the responsibility of calculating daily petroleum prices based on international trends, a move designed by the federal cabinet to insulate the state from financial risk. To ensure absolute clarity, the regulator will publish the global Platts benchmark rates on its website, along with an explicit breakdown of the components forming the retail price. Malik stated that this open disclosure is aimed at helping the public comprehend the necessity of the price shifts. He also expressed regret over the renewed regional escalation, noting it comes despite Pakistan’s active leadership in pushing for a ceasefire and diplomatic reconciliation.