Petroleum dealers association postpones strike amid Middle East crisis

Petroleum dealers have decided to hold off on their planned nationwide strike that was set to begin on March 26, citing concerns over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its potential impact on fuel supplies.

Abdul Sami Khan, head of the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association, said the decision was taken to avoid further inconvenience to the public at a time when global oil markets are already under pressure. He explained that an escalation in the conflict could disrupt supply chains, making the situation more difficult for consumers.

“The situation remains uncertain,” he said, pointing to the rapidly changing global environment.

The association had earlier issued a deadline to the government, demanding an increase in dealers’ margins from 2.59 per cent to 8 per cent. This demand came after a sharp rise of Rs55 per litre in petrol and diesel prices earlier this month, a move linked to the economic fallout of tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Khan said that before the price hike, the Economic Coordination Committee had backed a proposal to raise dealers’ margins. However, he claimed the plan was put on hold on the prime minister’s instructions, leaving margins unchanged despite the increase in fuel prices.

So far, he noted, there has been no major shortage of petrol or diesel, as oil marketing companies continue to supply dealers with adequate quantities.