The Petroleum Dealers Association has warned of a nationwide strike after Eid, saying petrol pumps across the country could shut down if the government does not increase dealers’ profit margins.
According to association leader Tariq Hassan, fuel dealers will begin an indefinite strike from March 26 if their demands are not addressed. He said the issue of increasing dealer margins has been repeatedly raised with authorities, but no progress has been made despite assurances given about two years ago.
Dealers say rising operational expenses have made it difficult to continue operating petrol pumps under the current margin structure. They argue that while fuel prices have increased significantly, their profit margins have remained unchanged.
The association also criticized the recent Rs. 55 per liter increase in petroleum prices, describing it as “embezzlement” and demanding an investigation. Dealers claim oil marketing companies earned billions of rupees after the price hike and allege that some companies stocked fuel before the increase, allowing them to gain unfair financial advantages.
Petroleum dealers further said the price increase has raised their fuel purchasing costs, adding financial pressure on pump operators already struggling with higher operational expenses.
The association also expressed concern over supply issues, claiming that oil marketing companies have reduced fuel quotas for petrol pumps by nearly half, creating additional challenges for retailers. Dealers have urged authorities to investigate the price increase and revise the profit margin policy. They warned that if their demands are not met, the planned nationwide strike after Eid could disrupt fuel supply across Pakistan.