Govt Keeps Petrol, Diesel Rates. The Government of Pakistan has announced that petrol and diesel prices will remain unchanged for the rest of January 2026. This decision brings short-term relief and stability for consumers who were expecting another fuel price revision amid ongoing inflation and economic pressure.
According to the official notification, the prices of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) and Motor Spirit (MS) Petrol will stay the same as announced earlier this month. The revised rates will remain effective from January 16, 2026, until the next fortnightly review.
Latest Petrol and Diesel Prices in Pakistan
As per the government’s announcement:
- High-Speed Diesel (HSD): Rs. 257.08 per litre
- Motor Spirit (Petrol): Rs. 253.17 per litre
These prices were first notified on January 1, 2026, and will now continue unchanged for the next two weeks.
Fuel prices in Pakistan are typically reviewed every 15 days, based on international oil market trends, exchange rate movements, and recommendations from regulatory authorities.
Why Fuel Prices Were Not Changed
The decision to keep fuel prices unchanged was taken following recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority. A press release issued by the Ministry of Energy confirmed that the government reviewed current global oil prices and domestic economic conditions before making the final call.
Officials indicated that international oil prices remained relatively stable during the review period. As a result, no upward or downward adjustment was considered necessary for the current fortnight.
Impact on Consumers and Businesses
Keeping petrol and diesel prices unchanged provides temporary relief to both households and businesses across Pakistan.
Relief for the Public
Stable fuel prices help control transport costs, which directly affect food prices, daily commuting expenses, and household budgets. Any sudden increase in fuel prices usually leads to a ripple effect across essential goods.
Stability for Transport and Industry
Diesel is widely used in transport, agriculture, and industrial sectors. Maintaining the HSD price helps logistics companies, farmers, and manufacturers manage operating costs more predictably.
Previous Fuel Price Reduction Explained
In the previous fortnight, the government announced a noticeable reduction in fuel prices:
- Diesel price cut: Rs. 8.57 per litre
- Petrol price cut: Rs. 10.28 per litre
These reductions were welcomed by the public and were attributed to a decline in international oil prices and favorable exchange rate movements at that time.
The decision to maintain prices now suggests that the government aims to balance consumer relief with revenue considerations.
How Fuel Prices Are Decided in Pakistan
Fuel prices in Pakistan are not fixed permanently. They are reviewed every two weeks based on:
- International crude oil prices
- Import costs and freight charges
- Exchange rate fluctuations
- Taxes and petroleum levies
- Recommendations from OGRA
After OGRA submits its proposal, the federal government makes the final decision.
Related Economic Developments
In other recent financial updates, the State Bank of Pakistan has allowed exchange companies to join the Raast payment system to improve the speed of home remittances. Such steps aim to stabilize the economy and support foreign inflows, which indirectly influence fuel pricing decisions.
What to Expect in the Next Review
Experts believe that future fuel price adjustments will depend heavily on global oil market trends and Pakistan’s foreign exchange situation. Any sharp rise in international crude prices or currency depreciation could lead to price increases in the next review.
Consumers are advised to stay updated with official announcements and avoid relying on unofficial price rumors circulating on social media.
FAQs
Will petrol prices increase after January 2026?
Fuel prices may change after the next fortnightly review, depending on global oil prices and government policy decisions.
Why does Pakistan review fuel prices every 15 days?
The fortnightly review system helps align domestic prices with international market movements.
Who announces fuel prices in Pakistan?
Fuel prices are announced by the federal government after recommendations from OGRA.
Do stable fuel prices help control inflation?
Yes. Fuel prices directly affect transport and production costs, so stability helps control inflation.
Conclusion
The decision by the Government of Pakistan to keep petrol and diesel prices unchanged until the end of January 2026 offers short-term relief to consumers and businesses. With petrol at Rs. 253.17 per litre and diesel at Rs. 257.08 per litre, the move reflects a cautious approach amid global uncertainty and domestic economic challenges.
