Petrol Prices in Pakistan (1947–2026): Full Historical Overview
Petrol, also known as motor spirit, has been a crucial fuel in Pakistan since its independence. Over the last eight decades, its price has changed dramatically. What once cost only a few paisas per litre has now crossed Rs. 250 per litre.
The movement of petrol prices in Pakistan is closely tied to economic development, global oil markets, inflation, currency depreciation, and population growth. This article provides a detailed look at petrol price history in Pakistan from 1947 to 2026.
1947: Petrol in the Early Days
When Pakistan became independent in August 1947:
- The economy was mainly agricultural.
- Industrial activity was limited.
- Vehicle ownership was rare; most people used trains, buses, bicycles, or animal carts.
At that time, petrol prices were extremely low:
Petrol price in 1947: ~Rs. 0.23 per litre
Fuel demand was minimal, and petrol was not a major household expense.
1947–1970: Gradual and Controlled Price Growth
During the first two decades after independence, petrol prices increased slowly. Global oil markets were relatively stable, and Pakistan’s fuel demand remained moderate.
| Year | Approx. Price (PKR/Litre) |
|---|---|
| 1947 | 0.23 |
| 1950 | 0.25 |
| 1960 | 0.36 |
| 1965 | 0.40 |
| 1970 | 0.48 |
Why prices stayed stable:
- Limited industrial growth
- Low vehicle ownership
- Stable international oil rates
- Controlled economic expansion
Petrol remained affordable for most vehicle owners during this period.
1970s–1990s: Oil Crises and Major Increases
The 1970s marked a turning point due to global oil crises. Pakistan imports most of its petroleum, so changes in international oil prices directly impacted domestic petrol rates.
| Year | Approx. Price (PKR/Litre) |
|---|---|
| 1975 | 1.20 |
| 1980 | 2.50 |
| 1985 | 3.00 |
| 1990 | 6.00 |
| 1995 | 11.00 |
Key developments:
- Rapid urbanization and industrialization
- Growth in private vehicle ownership
- Expansion of roads and infrastructure
By the 1990s, petrol crossed Rs. 10 per litre for the first time, making it a noticeable household expense.
2000–2013: Sharp Acceleration
The early 2000s saw much steeper increases due to:
- Rising global oil demand
- Geopolitical tensions
- Speculation in international markets
| Year | Approx. Price (PKR/Litre) |
|---|---|
| 2000 | ~30 |
| 2005 | ~55 |
| 2007 | ~60 |
| 2010 | ~73 |
| 2012 | ~108 |
| 2013 | ~110 |
For the first time, petrol exceeded Rs. 100 per litre, significantly impacting transportation costs, delivery charges, and household budgets.
2014–2019: Fluctuations but High Prices
Global oil supply changes caused temporary reductions, but prices remained high.
| Year | Approx. Price (PKR/Litre) |
|---|---|
| 2014 | ~94.50 |
| 2015 | ~80 |
| 2018 | ~80.70 |
| 2019 | ~90 |
Even with minor drops, petrol never returned to its previous low levels.
2020–2026: Record Highs and Extreme Volatility
The 2020s have been the most unstable period for petrol prices.
| Year | Approx. Price (PKR/Litre) |
|---|---|
| 2020 | ~100 |
| 2022 | ~200 |
| 2023 | ~331.38 |
| 2024 | ~249.10 |
| 2025 | ~255.86 |
| 2026 | ~255+ |
Petrol crossed Rs. 300 per litre for the first time in 2023.
Why Petrol Prices Have Risen So Much
1. Global Oil Market Changes
- Wars and geopolitical tensions
- Supply shortages
- Decisions by oil-exporting countries
- Rising global demand
2. Currency Depreciation
- Oil is traded in US dollars
- When the Pakistani Rupee weakens, import costs increase, raising domestic petrol prices
3. Government Taxes and Levies
- Petroleum levy
- Sales tax
- Distribution margins
Taxes form a significant portion of the retail price.
4. Rising Domestic Demand
- Population growth
- Urbanization
- Increased vehicle ownership
- Higher fuel consumption
Impact on Daily Life
Rising petrol prices affect nearly every sector:
Direct Effects:
- Higher public transport fares
- Increased ride-hailing and taxi charges
- Higher delivery and logistics costs
Indirect Effects:
- Rising food prices
- Increased manufacturing costs
- Overall inflation
Fuel prices are a major factor in the cost of living.
Long-Term Comparison
| Year | Petrol Price (PKR/Litre) |
|---|---|
| 1947 | 0.23 |
| 2026 | ~255+ |
This is more than a thousand-fold increase over nearly 80 years, reflecting inflation, currency depreciation, and economic growth.
Final Analysis
The history of petrol prices in Pakistan mirrors the country’s economic development and challenges. From a newly independent nation with few vehicles to a developing country heavily dependent on imported energy, petrol pricing has been shaped by:
- Global oil trends
- Currency depreciation
- Inflation
- Government taxation policies
- Rising domestic demand
Petrol, once costing only a few paisas, has now become a significant household and business expense. The story of petrol prices is not just about fuel—it reflects Pakistan’s economic growth, global integration, and dependence on energy markets.
