Fuel crisis: JI panel hails relief measures in meeting with ministers

ISLAMABAD: A delegation of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) led by Liaquat Baloch called on Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani at the Petroleum Division. The JI delegation welcomed the government’s targeted relief measures for two- and three-wheelers and small cars. Liaquat Baloch appreciated the relief initiatives and stressed that, alongside immediate relief, permanent and sustainable solutions to the underlying issues should also be pursued, including reduction of the Petroleum Levy. The delegation was briefed on the comprehensive steps taken by the government to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies during the recent crisis situation. Heads of major refineries, including PARCO, PRL and Cnergyico, along with representatives of PSO and OGRA, also briefed the delegation on the operational management of the fuel sector and measures being taken to maintain adequate supplies across the country. The delegation was further briefed on the petroleum pricing mechanism, including the seven-day rolling average-based pricing system. A comparative analysis of petroleum prices and fuel supply management in regional countries was also presented, highlighting Pakistan’s relatively better management of the situation compared to regional countries. Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik said the government has taken comprehensive measures to protect consumers and ensure fuel availability. He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched a targeted relief scheme for the weaker segments of society. “Bikers, two- and three-wheelers and small cars are being provided a targeted subsidy which is higher than the petroleum levy, ” Ali Pervaiz Malik said. He stressed that targeted subsidy is the way forward instead of blanket subsidy, ensuring that government support reaches those who need it most. The Minister for Petroleum said the government is also pursuing the upgradation of refineries, which will enable the production of Euro-V compliant fuel and reduce the production of furnace oil. The upgraded refineries will increase the production of petrol and diesel, thereby reducing Pakistan’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products and creating the potential for exports in the future. Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar said that providing relief to the people remains the Prime Minister’s priority. He said Pakistan’s recent diplomatic successes have elevated the country’s position internationally. Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani said the government is taking measures to broaden the tax base and promote direct taxation as part of its efforts to strengthen the economy and improve revenue collection. The delegation was assured by Ministers that their recommendations will be shared with the PM. The meeting also discussed broader measures aimed at ensuring energy security, protecting consumers and strengthening the country’s petroleum sector. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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