The federal government has increased fixed charges for domestic gas consumers, starting July 1.
A key meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, was held to discuss and approve several major decisions related to the economy, energy, and food security.
During the meeting, it was decided to maintain gas tariffs for domestic consumers, with only a minor adjustment in fixed charges, according to the official statement.
As per media reports, fixed charges for protected consumers have been increased from Rs400 to Rs450 per month, while for non-protected consumers, the charges have been raised from Rs1,000 to Rs1,400. Consumers using more than 1.5 cubic meters of gas will now pay Rs2,400 per month, up from Rs2,000.
Moreover, the ECC approved an average 10 percent increase in gas prices for gas-powered power plants and industrial consumers.
The ECC also approved the import of sugar and sanctioned the formation of a 10-member steering committee, to be headed by the Federal Minister for National Food Security. The committee will include the Minister for Commerce, Special Assistant for Foreign Affairs, Finance Secretary, and Chairman FBR, and will present its recommendations to the ECC.
The committee also reviewed a proposal from the Ministry of Finance regarding changes to the home remittance scheme. The ECC directed the State Bank and Ministry of Finance to present a complete analysis and plan by July 31.
Furthermore, the ECC approved a proposal to launch a risk coverage scheme for small farmers and underdeveloped regions. According to the statement, the scheme is expected to be formally launched on August 14, 2025.
