The government has increased the petroleum levy on fuel products under conditions linked to the International Monetary Fund programme, adding further financial pressure on citizens already dealing with rising living costs.
According to reports, the petroleum levy on petrol has now reached Rs. 117.41 per litre, while the levy on high-speed diesel has increased to Rs. 42.60 per litre. The latest adjustment came after an additional Rs. 13.91 per litre charge was imposed on both petrol and diesel.
Officials stated that the increase was introduced as part of the government’s commitments under the IMF programme. With the latest revision, authorities say Pakistan has now fulfilled the IMF condition requiring a combined petroleum levy target of Rs160 per litre on fuel products.
The increase is expected to affect transport costs, inflation, and daily household expenses across the country. Economists warn that higher fuel-related taxes often lead to increases in food prices, delivery charges, and public transport fares because fuel is closely connected to almost every sector of the economy.
Many citizens and business owners have expressed concern over the growing financial burden caused by repeated fuel price adjustments and rising taxes. Transporters and industrial sectors also fear that higher fuel costs may increase operational expenses and reduce purchasing power in the market.
Economic experts say the government is trying to improve revenue collection and meet international financial commitments while managing fiscal pressures.
However, they also caution that continuous increases in petroleum-related charges may create additional inflationary pressure for consumers.
The latest development comes at a time when Pakistan is already facing economic challenges, including rising inflation and higher import costs linked to global oil market uncertainty and regional tensions in the Middle East.
