The federal government failed to avert a nationwide shutdown of petrol pumps after negotiations with petroleum dealers ended without an agreement, prompting dealers to announce an indefinite strike from August 15.

Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association Chairman Malik Khuda Baksh said the government refused to withdraw its daily petroleum price adjustment mechanism during the talks. However, officials assured dealers that their sales margin could be increased by Rs. 1.34 per litre, subject to approval by the federal cabinet.

The association rejected the government’s proposal, saying it did not address its key demands, and confirmed that the nationwide strike would begin on Saturday morning.

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Petrol dealers had earlier given the government a 72-hour ultimatum, warning that fuel stations across the country would close if their demands were not met. Dealers have been seeking changes to the fuel pricing mechanism, particularly after the government shifted to more frequent petroleum price adjustments.

Meanwhile, the nationwide goods transport strike entered its sixth consecutive day, with talks between transporters and the federal and Sindh governments also ending without a breakthrough.

All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan said the strike would continue until the government’s commitments were formally accepted and notified. He urged transporters to remain peaceful and avoid blocking roads during the protest.