Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik has warned that Pakistan cannot continue providing unconditional subsidies to offset high petrol prices, as the cost of dealing with the global oil shock runs into thousands of billions of rupees.

Addressing workers in his constituency, Malik said the government needs to secure the required resources before committing to additional spending. He warned that spending without arranging funds could create problems similar to those Pakistan faced in 2022, when the country came close to default and inflation surged.

The minister said domestic fuel prices are tied to movements in the international oil market. He added that if global oil prices decline, Pakistan will also reduce prices accordingly.

Malik said he does not personally determine petrol prices, as international market movements affect the cost of petroleum products in Pakistan.

He is also scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia next week to thank the country for ensuring oil supplies and to express solidarity during the current difficult period.

The minister said the government is preparing for challenges expected during the coming winter months. He has already briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the expected issues for December, January and February, along with measures that need to be taken before winter.

On the gas situation, Malik said the government plans to bring in LPG in time to help manage a potential shortage.

He also clarified that LPG pricing falls under the regulatory framework of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), which has been responsible for determining LPG prices for decades.

Malik also spoke about the security situation, saying terrorism has again increased in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He called for political leaders to support the security leadership and said national unity is needed to deal with the security challenges.

He also urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to fulfill its responsibilities in protecting the province and the country.