Save Our Pak
Islamabad – March 6, 2026: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reportedly asked Pakistan to raise the prices of petrol and diesel without delay.
According to sources, this demand came during recent virtual talks between Pakistan and the IMF. During the discussions, the IMF urged the government to increase fuel prices and avoid providing any subsidies on petroleum products.
Officials familiar with the talks said the IMF believes the financial burden of higher fuel costs should be passed directly to consumers instead of being covered by government subsidies.
Sources also revealed that the IMF recommended keeping the current targets for the Petroleum Development Levy on fuel. The government has set a goal to collect 1,468 billion rupees through this levy by June 30. From July to December alone, more than 822 billion rupees, which is over 60 percent of the target, have already been collected.
During the negotiations, different ideas were also discussed to reduce energy use and control the country’s current account deficit. One proposal suggests moving schools and colleges to online classes in the first phase.
In the second phase, universities and government offices could adopt a “smart working” system, allowing employees to work from home. Officials also discussed setting fixed opening and closing hours for shops and markets. Grocery stores and restaurants may be encouraged to operate mainly through delivery services.
A detailed plan will be prepared to implement these energy-saving measures if they are approved.
Government officials say that Pakistan currently has a satisfactory supply of petroleum products, but the situation is being closely monitored because global conditions can change quickly.
Sources added that the Prime Minister will soon receive a briefing about different fuel supply routes and possible price adjustments. Authorities are also considering strict action against fuel hoarding and illegal transportation, using intelligence-based operations.
Reported by Save Our Pak
