The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association has warned of a nationwide strike after Eid, saying petrol pumps across Pakistan could shut down if the government fails to increase dealers’ profit margins.
Association leader Tariq Hassan said fuel dealers will begin an indefinite strike from March 26 if their demands are not addressed. According to him, the issue of revising dealer margins has been raised repeatedly with authorities, but no meaningful progress has been made despite assurances given nearly two years ago.
Dealers Demand Higher Profit Margins
Petroleum dealers say rising operational costs have made it increasingly difficult to run petrol pumps under the current margin structure. While fuel prices have climbed significantly in recent years, dealers claim their profit margins have remained unchanged, putting financial pressure on pump operators.
They argue that expenses such as staff salaries, electricity bills, maintenance, and security costs have increased sharply, making it difficult for many stations to remain profitable.
Criticism Over Fuel Price Increase
The association also criticized the recent Rs. 55 per liter increase in petroleum prices, describing the move as “embezzlement” and calling for a thorough investigation.
Dealers allege that several oil marketing companies stocked fuel before the price hike, enabling them to earn billions of rupees in additional profits once the new prices took effect.
According to the association, the price hike has also increased the cost at which petrol pump operators purchase fuel, further squeezing their already thin margins.
Concerns Over Fuel Supply
Another concern raised by the dealers involves fuel supply issues. The association claims that oil marketing companies have reduced fuel quotas for petrol pumps by nearly half, creating additional difficulties for retailers.
Dealers say these supply cuts are making it harder for petrol pumps to maintain regular stock levels and serve customers efficiently.
Possible Nationwide Fuel Disruption
Petroleum dealers have urged the government to review the current margin policy and investigate the recent price increase. They warned that if their demands are not met, the planned nationwide strike after Eid could severely disrupt fuel supply across the country.
With thousands of petrol pumps potentially affected, the strike could lead to long queues at fuel stations and transportation disruptions if the dispute remains unresolved.
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Pakistan petroleum dealers warn of a nationwide strike after Eid over unchanged profit margins and fuel supply issues, threatening petrol pump closures across the country.
