Petrol Prices Surge in Pakistan
The Pakistani government announced a significant increase in petrol prices on March 11, 2026, raising the cost by 55 Pakistani rupees per litre. This adjustment brings the ex-depot price of petrol to 321.17 rupees per litre, up from the previous 266.17 rupees per litre, marking an increase of approximately 17 percent.
Additionally, the ex-depot price of high-speed diesel was set at 335.86 rupees per litre, reflecting a 20 percent rise from its previous price of 280.86 rupees per litre. This price hike comes amid a backdrop of rising fuel costs globally, as at least 85 countries have reported increases in petrol prices since the onset of attacks on Iran by the US and Israel on February 28.
In the United States, the average price of regular petrol has jumped from $2.94 per gallon in February to $3.58, a 20 percent increase. Meanwhile, Vietnam has experienced the most drastic rise, with petrol prices soaring nearly 50 percent from $0.75 per litre to $1.13.
In India, petrol prices remain steady at ₹94.77 per litre, while diesel is priced at ₹87.67 per litre. Domestic LPG prices have also seen an increase, with a rise of about ₹60 per 14.2-kg cylinder, bringing the price in Delhi to around ₹913.
Experts suggest that the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the resulting supply chain disruptions are contributing to these price hikes. Dhruv Ruparel noted, “There is a shortage of LPG, and people are speculating that there’s a shortage of petrol and diesel as well.”
Furthermore, analysts predict that crude oil prices may stabilize around $100 per barrel, which could have further implications for petrol pricing in the region.
Asia’s heavy reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for oil and gas delivery has been highlighted as a critical factor in the current situation, especially given that the strait has been effectively closed since the start of the conflict.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term impact of these geopolitical tensions on future petrol prices, as the situation continues to evolve.
