Pakistan Hikes Petrol and Diesel Prices by Rs55 Per Litre in Largest Single Increase This Year

ISLAMABAD, March 6, 2026 — The Pakistani government on Friday night announced a massive Rs55 per litre increase in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel, marking the steepest single-day fuel price hike in recent months.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik announced the revised rates, under which petrol (Motor Spirit) will now be sold at Rs321.17 per litre, while high-speed diesel (HSD) has been fixed at Rs335.86 per litre, effective immediately.
The increase comes amid rising global oil prices and growing regional uncertainty. Government sources also confirmed that Islamabad is moving towards a weekly review mechanism for petroleum prices, replacing the existing fortnightly system.
The sudden and sharp increase is expected to send shockwaves across Pakistan’s already inflation-hit economy. Millions of daily commuters relying on motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, and private vehicles will feel the immediate pinch, while the ripple effects on food supply chains and public transport fares are expected to be significant. Since diesel powers most commercial transport, any increase directly affects the supply chain and consumer goods pricing. 
Officials say the increase comes amid fluctuations in the global oil market, with ongoing geopolitical tensions pushing crude oil prices higher.  (INCPak) The depreciation of the Pakistani Rupee against the US Dollar has also significantly raised the cost of petroleum imports.
Economic analysts warn that if regional tensions escalate further, Pakistan could face additional upward pressure on fuel prices in the coming weeks. The government’s move to shift to weekly price reviews also signals a more volatile pricing environment ahead for consumers.