Petrol Prices Surge in Pakistan Amid Regional Tensions

Significant Price Increase Announced

The Pakistani government has announced a substantial increase in petrol prices, raising them by 55 Pakistani rupees per litre as of March 11, 2026. This adjustment brings the ex-depot price of petrol to 321.17 Pakistani rupees per litre, up from 266.17 rupees, marking an increase of approximately 17 percent.

Additionally, the ex-depot price of high-speed diesel has been set at 335.86 Pakistani rupees per litre, reflecting a 20 percent rise from the previous price of 280.86 rupees.

Wider Context of Price Increases

This surge in petrol prices is part of a larger trend, with at least 85 countries reporting increases in fuel costs since the onset of military actions in Iran by the US and Israel on February 28. In the United States, the average price of regular petrol has risen from $2.94 in February to $3.58, indicating a 20 percent increase.

Vietnam has experienced one of the highest increases, with petrol prices soaring by nearly 50 percent, from $0.75 per litre to $1.13.

Local Impact and Reactions

In India, petrol prices in Delhi remain steady at ₹94.77 per litre, while diesel is priced at ₹87.67 per litre. However, domestic LPG prices have also seen a rise, increasing by about ₹60 for a 14.2-kg cylinder, bringing the total to around ₹913.

Local residents have expressed concerns regarding potential shortages, as noted by Dhruv Ruparel, who stated, “There is a shortage of LPG, and people are speculating that there’s a shortage of petrol and diesel as well.”

Geopolitical Implications

Asia’s heavy reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for oil and gas deliveries has intensified the impact of these geopolitical tensions, which have effectively closed this critical shipping route since the conflict began. Analysts predict that crude oil prices may stabilize around $100 per barrel, further influencing petrol prices.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact future impact of these geopolitical tensions on petrol prices, leaving consumers and businesses alike in a state of uncertainty.