The prices of key petroleum products, including high-speed diesel (HSD), petrol, and kerosene, are expected to rise by up to Rs. 6 per litre starting Wednesday, driven by an increase in international oil prices.
The ex-depot price of petrol is projected to increase by Rs5-6 per litre, while kerosene and diesel prices may see a hike of Rs3 and Rs2 per litre, respectively. The final price adjustments will be determined on January 15.
The anticipated price hike comes as international oil markets experienced a surge last week, attributed to geopolitical tensions. The rise in Brent crude prices—by $1-2 per barrel, was triggered by threats of stricter sanctions on Russian oil and energy exports by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. This upward trend in global oil prices has directly impacted the cost of petroleum products in Pakistan.
The average international prices of HSD and petrol increased slightly over the past fortnight, while the ex-refinery cost of kerosene also rose. However, import premiums on petrol and diesel remained stable, and the exchange rate showed no significant fluctuations.
Preliminary calculations suggest that petrol prices could increase by Rs5.50-6.50 per litre, HSD by Rs2-2.50 per litre, and kerosene by Rs4 per litre for the upcoming fortnight.
Currently, the ex-depot prices for petrol and diesel stand at Rs252.66 and Rs258.34 per litre, respectively, while kerosene is priced at Rs162.95 per litre. On December 31, the government had already increased petrol and diesel prices by 56 paisa and Rs2.96 per litre, respectively.
