ISLAMABAD: Prices of petroleum products are likely to remain largely unchanged for the first half of May 2025, with only negligible variations expected in petrol and diesel rates, according to official and industry estimates.
As per the latest calculations, petrol prices may see a minor decrease of Re0.016 per litre, while high-speed diesel (HSD) could edge up by just Re0.01 per litre. Given the marginal nature of these changes, government sources suggest that no adjustment in prices will be made for consumers starting May 1.
“The fluctuation is too minimal to be passed on to the end consumers,” said a senior official familiar with the pricing mechanism. He added that international crude prices have remained relatively stable in recent days, reducing the need for local adjustments.
Brent crude is currently priced at $65.52 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) is trading at $61.87 per barrel. Both benchmarks are under pressure due to concerns over oversupply and ongoing uncertainty surrounding trade negotiations between the United States and China.
However, some petroleum products are expected to see slight increases. Kerosene oil, widely used for cooking and heating in rural areas, is projected to rise by Rs1.30 per litre — a 0.8% hike — bringing the new price to Rs170.68 from the current Rs169.38 per litre.
Similarly, the price of Light Diesel Oil (LDO), commonly used in agricultural machinery and generators, may increase by Rs1.35 per litre to Rs154.39 from the existing Rs153.04.
The final decision on price adjustments will be made by the Ministry of Finance after reviewing the summary submitted by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).
Analysts say the government appears keen to maintain stability in fuel prices amidst broader economic pressures, especially with inflation concerns and an upcoming IMF board review.
If approved, the unchanged prices would offer short-term relief to consumers, particularly transporters and businesses sensitive to fuel costs.
