Pakistan is among dozens of countries that have recorded big increases in petrol prices following the escalation of the US-Israel war with Iran, which has disrupted global energy markets and pushed up fuel costs worldwide.
According to data shared by Al Jazeera, at least 85 countries have seen petrol price increases since the start of the conflict.
| Rank | Country/Territory | February 23 (USD) | March 11 (USD) | Price Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cambodia | $1.11 | $1.32 | 67.81% |
| 2 | Vietnam | $0.75 | $1.13 | 49.73% |
| 3 | Nigeria | $0.59 | $0.80 | 35.02% |
| 4 | Laos | $1.34 | $1.78 | 32.94% |
| 5 | Canada | $1.16 | $1.30 | 28.36% |
| 6 | Pakistan | $0.92 | $1.15 | 24.49% |
| 7 | Maldives | $0.87 | $1.04 | 18.54% |
| 8 | Australia | $1.11 | $1.31 | 18.23% |
| 9 | United States | $0.87 | $1.01 | 16.55% |
| 10 | Singapore | $2.16 | $2.50 | 15.69% |
The surge is largely driven by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route that handles a huge portion of the world’s energy trade.
Globally, fuel prices have risen sharply. In several countries, governments have responded by reducing taxes, offering subsidies, or implementing fuel-saving measures to cushion the economic impact.
Pakistan has been particularly exposed to the global price spike. The federal government on March 6 increased the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs. 55 to Rs. 321.17 per litre, while increasing Motor Spirit (MS) petrol prices by Rs. 55 to Rs. 335.86 per litre.
It has become evident that countries dependent on imports (such as Pakistan) face continued pressure if global oil prices remain elevated, especially as supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions persist.
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