Govt says high-octane levy hike did not affect jet fuel prices

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday chaired a review meeting on the petroleum sector and was informed that the recent increase in levy on high-octane fuel used in luxury vehicles has not led to any change in jet fuel prices, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.

Officials briefed the meeting that sufficient quantities of petroleum products are currently available in the country to meet national requirements, adding that demand and supply conditions, along with the entire supply chain, are being monitored on a regular basis.

A digital dashboard has been developed to strengthen oversight of petroleum stocks, consumption patterns, and distribution flows, enabling authorities to maintain real-time visibility of the fuel situation amid ongoing regional tensions linked to the Gulf crisis.

The meeting also received a detailed briefing on the implementation of fuel conservation measures, current fuel stock levels, and proposals for a future action plan to manage consumption and ensure supply stability.

Prime Minister Sharif reiterated that proposals to increase oil prices have been repeatedly rejected, stating that the government is attempting to create fiscal space through austerity measures rather than passing the burden on to consumers.

He said government expenditures have been curtailed, including reductions in the development budget and the withdrawal of around 60 percent of government vehicles from operational use as part of the energy-saving drive.

Funds saved through these cost-cutting measures are being utilised to provide relief to the public, particularly low-income and middle-class households affected by rising energy costs, the prime minister said, adding that economically vulnerable segments of society would not be left alone during the current period of economic strain.

The meeting was further informed that coordination with provincial governments is being strengthened to complete the ownership registration of motorcycle and rickshaw users, a step aimed at enabling targeted relief measures for transport-dependent households.

An audit report prepared by the Intelligence Bureau on the implementation of the prime minister’s fuel-saving directives and austerity campaign was also presented during the session.