Pakistan Hikes High Octane Fuel Price From PKR 100 To PKR 300 As Crisis Worsens Amid Hormuz Closure

Last Updated:March 23, 2026, 07:58 IST

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the steep increase in the levy on high-octane fuel, which is mainly used by luxury vehicles.

While India’s fuel situation appears under control despite the closure of the Strait of Hormuz since March 2, Pakistan continues to face mounting pressure. 

Pakistan’s fuel crisis shows no sign of easing. According to a report by ARY News, fuel costs have surged by 200 per cent amid the choke at the Strait of Hormuz.

Pakistan decided on Sunday to sharply raise the price of high-octane fuel. The rate per litre has been increased by Pakistani Rupees 200, taking it from PKR 100 to PKR 300, the report said.

Pakistan government approves price hike

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the steep increase in the levy on high-octane fuel, which is mainly used by luxury vehicles. The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Sharif, where fuel pricing and economic relief measures were reviewed.

The increase in high-octane fuel prices will not affect public transport fares or air travel costs, according to the report.

Earlier surge

The latest hike follows an earlier rise in retail fuel prices after the March 2 closure of the Strait. Petrol prices climbed by around 20 per cent, increasing from PKR 266 per litre to PKR 321 per litre, while diesel reached PKR 336 per litre.

4 Indian tanker, 1 Pakistani tanker passed Hormuz

Meawhile, only one Pakistani vessel, the Aframax oil tanker MT Karachi, has passed through the Strait of Hormuz since its March 2, 2026 closure, while four Indian-flagged tankers have successfully crossed the route, easing immediate supply concerns.

News world Pakistan Hikes High Octane Fuel Price From PKR 100 To PKR 300 As Crisis Worsens Amid Hormuz Closure

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