Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: The federal government on Friday announced a shift to daily petroleum product price reviews, replacing the weekly mechanism as renewed US-Iran tensions drive extreme volatility in global oil markets .
New Pricing Structure
Under the new system, the government raised High-Speed Diesel (HSD) by Rs31.05 per litre to Rs354.35 and petrol by Rs5.44 per litre to Rs316.15, effective July 18, 2026 .
Government Rationale
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the decision, approved by the federal cabinet, aims to enhance transparency and reduce the risk of supply disruptions and hoarding . The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) will determine daily prices based on the average Platts benchmark over the previous seven working days .
Information Minister Ataullah Tarar said the daily system ensures immediate reflection of international price changes, dismissing criticism of delayed pass-through .
Rising Global Prices
Malik noted the Platts benchmark for diesel had risen from $110 to $140 per barrel, while petrol increased from $89 to nearly $100 per barrel . The renewed US-Iran conflict threatens global oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz .
Industry Opposition
The All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association rejected the policy, warning of protests and a nationwide strike next week if the decision is not withdrawn . Chairman Nauman Ali Butt said nearly 15,000 petrol pump owners have serious reservations .
