Pakistan’s petroleum dealers have strongly faced the government’s proposed deregulation policy, warning that it could lead to a nationwide shutdown of petrol pumps.
In a video message, Abdul Sami Khan, Chairman of the All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association, expressed serious concerns over the policy, arguing that deregulating fuel prices would encourage smuggling and adulteration of petroleum products.
@timesofkarachiChairman All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association Abdul Sami Khan has said that we reject the deregulated formula on the prices of petroleum products, the process of petroleum smuggling and adulteration will start. #TOKAlert #AbdulSamiKhan
He emphasized that allowing petrol stations to set their own prices could create price differences across the country, leading to unfair pricing for consumers.
In response, the association has called an emergency meeting of its central committee, with protest banners expected to be displayed across Pakistan.
Khan also revealed that an official protest letter will be sent to the Petroleum Ministry, demanding a higher profit margin for dealers. The association is pushing for a Rs. 13 per liter margin, a significant increase from the current 4 percent.
While the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has reportedly shown support for the concerns raised by dealers, it has not issued any official statement on the matter.
The chairman further pointed out that smuggling of petroleum products from Iran has once again surged, urging the federal government to negotiate a legal agreement with Iran to curb the illegal trade.
Criticizing Minister Musaddiq Malik, Khan accused him of ignoring the concerns of petroleum dealers and argued that deregulation would not lead to cheaper fuel for the public.
