ISLAMABAD: Committees representing the federal government and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) will meet today to finalise a draft agreement on the proposed abolition of the petroleum levy, ARY News reported on Wednesday, citing sources.
The meeting is expected to focus on the government’s proposal for a phased withdrawal of the petroleum levy and the provision of relief to specific sectors.
Sources said the Jamaat-e-Islami delegation will include Nasrullah Randhawa and Syed Farasat Shah, while the government team will be represented by Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Sanaullah and relevant officials.
The leadership of both sides is expected to review and approve the final draft agreement following the committee-level discussions.
According to sources, the government has agreed in principle to gradually abolish the petroleum levy. It has also expressed willingness to provide relief to owners of vehicles with engine capacities of up to 800cc and 1,000cc.
Read more: Govt decides to amend Petroleum Levy Ordinance, 1961
Additionally, the government has agreed to extend relief to the agriculture sector, sources added.
Earlier, the federal government decided to amend the Petroleum Products (Petroleum Levy and Climate Support Levy) Ordinance, 1961.
The proposed amendment comes amid growing criticism of the petroleum levy and rising petrol prices, which have increased the financial burden on low-income households. Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has been demanding the abolition of the levy to provide relief to consumers facing high fuel costs.
