Petrol Prices Surge in Pakistan
On March 11, 2026, the Pakistani government announced a significant increase in petrol prices, raising them by 55 Pakistani rupees per litre. This adjustment comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly following recent attacks on Iran by the US and Israel.
The ex-depot price of petrol has been revised to 321.17 Pakistani rupees per litre, up from 266.17 rupees, marking an increase of approximately 17 percent. Additionally, the price of high-speed diesel has also seen a significant rise, now fixed at 335.86 rupees per litre, which is about 20 percent higher than the previous price of 280.86 rupees.
This price hike in Pakistan is part of a broader trend, as at least 85 countries have reported increases in petrol prices since the geopolitical situation began to escalate on February 28. In the United States, the average price of regular petrol has risen from $2.94 in February to $3.58, a 20 percent increase.
In Asia, the situation is particularly acute, with countries like Vietnam experiencing the highest petrol price increase of nearly 50 percent, rising from $0.75 to $1.13 per litre. This surge is attributed to the region’s heavy reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for oil and gas deliveries, which has been effectively closed since the onset of the conflict.
In India, petrol prices remain stable, with petrol in Delhi priced at ₹94.77 per litre and diesel at ₹87.67 per litre. However, domestic LPG prices have also seen an increase, with a rise of about ₹60 per 14.2-kg cylinder, bringing the price to around ₹913.
Local reactions to the price hikes have been mixed, with some citizens expressing concern over potential shortages. Dhruv Ruparel noted, “There is a shortage of LPG, and people are speculating that there’s a shortage of petrol and diesel as well.” This sentiment reflects a growing anxiety among consumers regarding fuel availability.
Experts predict that crude oil prices could stabilize around $100 per barrel, although the exact impact of ongoing geopolitical tensions on future petrol prices remains uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed.
As the situation evolves, the implications for consumers and economies reliant on stable fuel prices will be closely monitored, particularly in regions heavily dependent on imports.
