The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has warned of a nationwide shutdown of petrol pumps starting March 27 if their demands for higher dealer profit margins are not addressed.
The move comes after failed negotiations with the government and oil marketing companies, raising concerns over potential fuel shortages across the country.
During a press briefing, PPDA representatives Abdul Sami Khan, Amir Khan Mahsud, and Tariq Hassan stated that petrol pumps across Pakistan could shut down from the night of March 26 if authorities do not resolve the issue.
Amir Khan Mahsud explained that rising operational costs and insufficient margins are making it increasingly difficult for dealers to sustain their businesses, calling the current situation financially untenable for pump owners.
The association also criticized the government for allegedly prioritizing the interests of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) over the challenges faced by local fuel retailers. Abdul Sami Khan highlighted that continuous hikes in petroleum prices and additional levies have intensified pressure on both dealers and consumers.
Meanwhile, the PPDA claimed that some OMCs have begun restricting fuel deliveries, a practice known as “capping”, resulting in temporary shortages at several petrol stations and forcing some to close due to lack of petrol and diesel.
