Finance ministry says fuel supply ‘stable’ despite ongoing volatility in global oil markets
2026-03-18 - 13:01
The finance ministry said on Wednesday that fuel supply across Pakistan remained “stable despite ongoing volatility in global oil markets”. In a post on X, the ministry said that Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired a meeting of the committee to monitor petrol prices. “Fuel supply across Pakistan remains stable despite ongoing volatility in global oil markets,” it said. “Diesel stocks currently provide around 24 days of cover, while petrol availability remains comfortable, supported by steady imports and refinery operations. Incoming crude shipments and additional cargoes in transit are expected to further strengthen national reserves,” it said. “Incoming crude shipments and additional cargoes in transit are expected to further strengthen national reserves,” it stated. The ministry said that the committee also noted continued tightness in international petroleum markets, with rising premiums and price pressures. “To ensure uninterrupted imports, coordination with the State Bank of Pakistan and financial institutions is being enhanced to address higher financing requirements,” it said. “Monitoring across the supply chain has been intensified to discourage hoarding and ensure smooth nationwide distribution, particularly ahead of Eid and the harvesting season. Authorities have confirmed that depots will remain operational and no disruption in fuel availability is anticipated.” The ministry reaffirmed that the government remained committed to maintaining energy security, ensuring an uninterrupted fuel supply, and minimising the impact of global market volatility on the public. The development comes after the government announced a Rs55 per litre hike in the prices of both petrol and high-speed diesel to deal with the fuel crunch resulting from the ongoing Middle East conflict. On Sunday, the government had also increased the price of kerosene oil by Rs40 per litre. Last week, PM Shehbaz had announced that petroleum prices would remain unchanged for the current review period, stressing that the decision was aimed at easing the financial burden on the public.