Fuel prices have witnessed a sharp increase across parts of Pakistan, with Iranian petrol becoming significantly more expensive in Balochistan while the government has also raised jet fuel prices for commercial airlines, adding further pressure on inflation and transportation costs.

In the border and coastal district of Gwadar, adjacent to Iran, the price of Iranian petrol has increased by Rs 30 to Rs 40 per liter over the past few days. Local traders and people associated with the oil business said the increase was linked to the closure of trade activities in the Kantani Hor border area, which disrupted the supply of fuel entering the region.

According to dealers, Iranian petrol that was previously being sold between Rs 170 and Rs 180 per liter is now being sold for around Rs 200 to Rs 210 per liter in different parts of Gwadar and nearby areas.

Residents and transporters in Balochistan have expressed concern over the sudden increase, saying rising fuel costs are further burdening households already struggling with inflation and increasing transportation expenses.

The latest rise comes after the government recently increased official petrol and diesel prices nationwide, triggering fresh concerns about the cost of living and price hikes in other sectors.

Meanwhile, aviation sources confirmed that the government has also significantly increased jet fuel prices for commercial aircraft operations.

According to sources, the price of jet fuel has been raised by Rs 53.11 per liter, taking the new rate to Rs 441.66 per liter. Aviation officials said the increase is expected to raise operational costs for airlines, which could eventually impact ticket prices and the broader aviation sector.

Industry experts say the simultaneous rise in fuel prices across multiple sectors is likely to contribute further to inflationary pressures, affecting transportation, trade, and travel expenses nationwide.

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ISLAMABAD: Gold prices in Pakistan fell for a second consecutive day on Saturday, tracking declines in international markets, according to the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers’ Association.

The price of gold dropped by Rs400 per tola to Rs493,662, the association said.

The price of 10 grams of gold fell by Rs343 to Rs423,235.

In the international market, spot gold prices slipped by $4 per ounce to $4,713, dealers said.

Silver prices in the domestic market also declined, with the price per tola falling by Rs12 to Rs8,513.

Bullion dealers said fluctuations in global gold prices continued to influence local markets in Pakistan.

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Pakistan has decided not to proceed with two LNG spot cargo purchases after signs of easing tensions in the Middle East raised hopes for the restoration of smoother energy supplies from Qatar, a report by Business Recorder said on Friday.

Pakistan LNG Limited reportedly withdrew from awarding emergency tenders for two LNG shipments scheduled for delivery later this month at Port Qasim in Karachi. The cargoes were expected between May 12-14 and May 24-26.

According to international market reports, the move came after assessments that the standoff involving the US and Iran may be cooling down, potentially reducing risks around the Strait of Hormuz and allowing regular Qatari LNG shipments to continue uninterrupted.

The decision carries some risk for Pakistan, which has been facing gas shortages and power disruptions. However, long-term LNG imports from Qatar remain significantly cheaper than spot market purchases, making the government cautious about buying expensive emergency cargoes.

The development also follows recent diplomatic engagement between Shehbaz Sharif and Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, during which both sides discussed regional stability and ongoing peace efforts in the Middle East.

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ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Wednesday that Pakistan’s economy is on the right track despite challenging conditions.

He said that they remained focused on reducing fiscal and current account deficits while strengthening capital markets.

Speaking at a Capital Market Development Fund signing ceremony in Islamabad, Aurangzeb said that regional tensions required a cautious policy approach, while stressing that Pakistan’s leadership was actively engaged in efforts to reduce regional instability.

“Our focus remains on improving macroeconomic indicators, and despite difficult circumstances the economy is moving in the right direction,” he said, according to a statement.

He said Pakistan’s stock market had remained stable despite regional uncertainty, adding that strengthening capital markets was critical for broader economic development and self-reliance.

Aurangzeb said greater reliance on domestic resources was essential for economic stability, adding that commercial decisions must be taken independently and in the national interest. He also stressed the need to shift towards alternative energy sources in light of regional developments.

The finance minister said efforts were underway to mobilise domestic savings and promote local investment, describing self-reliance as the only sustainable path to economic stability.

He said the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) had a key role in improving investor awareness and facilitating market access, adding that legal and regulatory reforms would be supported by the government.

Aurangzeb also highlighted the importance of engaging younger investors, saying “Generation Z is the future” and must be empowered and integrated into financial markets.

Separately, SECP Chairman Akif Saeed said Pakistan’s capital market remained underdeveloped, with less than 1% of the population currently participating as investors.

He said efforts were underway to expand the investor base to 2.5 million, supported by a broader strategy to improve awareness, inclusion and access to financial markets.

Saeed said joint platforms between SECP and market institutions had been formed to promote investment, while awareness campaigns and regulatory reforms were being advanced to attract new investors, particularly youth.

He said improving financial inclusion and investor confidence remained key priorities, adding that Pakistan’s markets offered significant investment opportunities that needed greater public participation.

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ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema held a meeting with Country Director for the World Bank in Pakistan, Bolormaa Amgaabazar to review ongoing cooperation and discuss priorities under the Country Partnership Framework (CPF), according to an official statement.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the implementation of the CPF and progress towards its development goals. Cheema said that both federal and provincial governments were fully on board to ensure effective execution of the framework and timely achievement of its targets.

The World Bank country director appreciated the government’s efforts to stabilise the economy and acknowledged ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening institutional capacity. Cheema reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining policy continuity and pushing forward with structural reforms.

The discussion also covered social sector priorities, particularly programmes focused on addressing child malnutrition. Officials highlighted the importance of scaling up such initiatives to improve long-term human development outcomes.

Climate resilience remained a key focus of the talks. Cheema noted that Pakistan, with World Bank support, is continuing efforts to mitigate the impact of floods and other climate-related risks. He added that the government is also working towards transitioning to a cleaner and more sustainable energy system.

Both sides also discussed measures to boost private sector productivity and encourage inclusive investment, seen as critical for sustained economic growth.

Cheema expressed appreciation for the World Bank Group’s continued support, calling it vital for Pakistan’s development agenda. He reaffirmed that the government remains committed to consistent policies and the effective implementation of reforms.

Amgaabazar said the World Bank would continue to support Pakistan in achieving its long-term development objectives, underscoring the institution’s ongoing partnership with the country.

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KARACHI: Pakistan and the United States held virtual talks on Wednesday to discuss expanding bilateral trade and deepening economic cooperation, Pakistan’s commerce ministry said, as Islamabad seeks to build on a tariff agreement reached last year.

The discussions followed a trade arrangement between the two countries after the administration of US President Donald Trump announced “reciprocal tariffs” that had threatened higher duties on Pakistani exports.

Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan held the virtual meeting with Rick Switzer, deputy US trade representative, with both sides reviewing opportunities to enhance bilateral trade, the ministry said in a statement.

“Pakistan is committed to strengthening its trade relationship with the United States through a balanced, forward-looking framework that benefits both economies,” Khan said.

He said that there was “significant potential” to diversify trade and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

According to the ministry, discussions covered digital trade, regulatory cooperation, and continued technical-level engagement aimed at maintaining momentum toward an early conclusion of broader negotiations.

The U.S. side also acknowledged Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability and facilitating dialogue during recent tensions following the conflict in Iran, the statement said.

“We value our engagement with Pakistan and look forward to continued collaboration to advance a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship,” the ministry quoted Switzer as saying.

Last year, Islamabad said it had reached a deal with Washington to ease the impact of proposed U.S. tariffs on Pakistani exports. The agreement also envisioned cooperation in sectors including energy, minerals, information technology and cryptocurrency.

Both sides agreed to maintain technical-level engagement to sustain progress toward a broader trade framework, the statement added.

Pakistan also extended an invitation for a future visit by the US side, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties.

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KARACHI: Gold prices in Pakistan rebounded sharply on Wednesday, reversing losses from the previous session, as rates surged in line with gains in the international market, traders said.

In the domestic market, the price of gold per tola jumped by Rs11,100 to Rs488,962, while the price of 10 grams rose by Rs9,517 to Rs419,206, according to data released by the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association.

The increase comes a day after gold prices had declined, with per tola rates falling to Rs477,862 and 10 grams to Rs409,689.

Analysts said the rebound reflects renewed strength in global bullion markets, where prices recovered after recent losses driven by expectations of prolonged high interest rates in the United States.

Higher interest rates typically weigh on gold, a non-yielding asset, by boosting the appeal of interest-bearing investments. However, persistent economic uncertainty and inflation concerns continue to support safe-haven demand for the precious metal.

Silver prices also edged higher in the local market, tracking the upward trend in gold.

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ISLAMABAD: The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) has urged the government to raise the Federal Excise Duty (FED) on cigarettes in the 2026–27 budget, saying the move could generate an additional Rs51 billion in revenue while reducing smoking rates.

The SPARC proposed a minimum increase of Rs35 per pack on economy brands and Rs21 per pack on premium brands, along with a gradual transition towards a unified tax structure.

The organisation said the proposed measures could prevent around 369,000 young people from starting smoking and reduce the number of smokers by about 271,000 nationwide.

SPARC Programme Manager Dr Khalil Ahmad said smoking continues to place a heavy burden on Pakistan’s healthcare system, contributing to about 192,000 deaths annually.

He said cigarette tax rates have remained unchanged since February 2023, eroding the real value of tobacco taxes due to inflation and making cigarettes—particularly low-cost brands—more affordable.

“When tobacco taxes remain stagnant, cigarettes become cheaper in real terms, increasing affordability and attracting more people, especially children and youth,” Ahmad said.

He added that the real FED has declined by about 23 per cent since February 2023, while the tax share on top brands has dropped from 47.4 per cent to 41.7 per cent.

Ahmad said Pakistan remains among the cheapest cigarette markets in the region, with a pack of 20 cigarettes priced at Int$3.46, compared with Int$6.32 in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and Int$10.91 in South-East Asia.

“This makes cigarettes about 83 per cent cheaper than in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and up to 215 per cent cheaper than in South-East Asia,” he said, warning that the price gap fuels consumption and increases the risk of youth initiation.

He said tobacco use also imposes a significant economic burden, with the annual cost of smoking estimated at Rs1,835 billion—around 1.6 per cent of GDP—far exceeding revenue generated through tobacco taxation.

Healthcare costs and productivity losses linked to smoking-related diseases amount to billions of rupees each year, he added, calling for a progressive, inflation-adjusted taxation policy.

The SPARC recommended a phased approach, including higher annual FED increases of around 35 per cent on economy brands and inflation-linked increases of about 6.5 per cent on premium brands to narrow the price gap between tiers.

Reducing the gap is critical, Ahmad said, as cheaper cigarettes are more likely to attract young and first-time smokers.

Addressing concerns about illicit trade, he said independent estimates suggest it accounts for 33–34 per cent of total cigarette consumption.

He added that Pakistan, as a signatory to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, is obligated to strengthen tobacco taxation to protect public health.

“Increasing tobacco taxes is the most effective measure to reduce consumption,” Ahmad said, adding that the proposed FED hike aligns with global best practices and would help boost revenue while protecting youth from addiction.

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KARACHI Gold prices in Pakistan extended their decline on Tuesday, tracking weaker global trends, with rates falling in both local and international markets, traders said.

In the domestic market, the price of gold per tola dropped by Rs2,100 to Rs477,862, while the price of 10 grams fell by Rs1,801 to Rs409,689, according to data from the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association.

The decline followed a drop in international prices, where gold fell by $21 to $4,555 per ounce in the global bullion market.

Silver prices also moved lower in Pakistan, with per tola rates declining by 65 rupees to 7,849 rupees, while 10 grams fell by 55 rupees to 6,729 rupees.

The latest fall comes after a sharp drop a day earlier, when gold prices in Pakistan had fallen by Rs3,800 per tola amid easing global rates.

Analysts say gold has come under pressure in recent sessions due to persistent inflation concerns and uncertainty over US monetary policy, which have strengthened expectations that interest rates may remain elevated.

Higher interest rates tend to reduce the appeal of gold, a non-yielding asset, as investors shift towards instruments offering better returns.

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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s merchandise trade deficit widened about 20 per cent to $32 billion in the first 10 months of the current fiscal year, as import growth continued to outpace exports, data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) showed.

During July-April FY2026, imports rose nearly 7 per cent to $57.2 billion, while exports fell more than 6 per cent to $25.2 billion, widening the overall imbalance, the PBS data said.

The trend persisted in April, when the monthly trade deficit increased nearly 4 per cent year-on-year to just over $4 billion. Exports rose about 14 per cent to $2.48 billion, but were outweighed by a 7.5 per cent rise in imports to $6.55 billion.

It said that Pakistan’s exports have remained under pressure since August 2025, with the exception of July, when shipments grew more than 16 per cent year-on-year.

Export earnings declined sharply in subsequent months, including a drop of over 20 per cent in December, followed by continued contractions in February and March.

Although exports showed a modest recovery in January and a stronger rebound in April, analysts said the gains were insufficient to offset rising import payments.

Trade analysts attribute the persistent deficit to higher demand for energy and industrial inputs, which has kept import volumes elevated.

In the services sector, the deficit narrowed about 6.7 per cent to $2.15 billion in July-March FY2026, as exports rose 17 per cent to $7.35 billion. Services imports increased nearly 11 per cent to $9.5 billion.

March saw a sharp improvement, with the services deficit narrowing significantly year-on-year, supported by higher export receipts and relatively stable imports.

Despite the improvement in services trade, Pakistan’s external accounts remain under pressure, with elevated import levels and weaker export growth weighing on the balance.

Analysts also warned that ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and broader Middle East conflict could further disrupt trade routes, increase shipping costs and dampen demand in key export markets.

The government has introduced measures in recent months, including reductions in energy tariffs, aimed at supporting exporters, but their impact has yet to fully materialise.

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Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are beginning to ripple through the global economy, with the International Monetary Fund warning of mounting inflation risks and a potentially severe economic outlook.

Speaking on the issue, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director  Kristalina Georgieva said the ongoing conflict has already started pushing inflation upward, largely driven by surging energy prices. However, she noted that long-term inflation expectations remain relatively stable for now.

Georgieva cautioned that the situation could deteriorate significantly if the conflict drags on. In a worst-case scenario where the war continues through 2027 and oil prices climb to $125 per barrel, the global economy could face serious strain. She stressed that while the most critical phase has not yet been reached, risks remain elevated due to persistent geopolitical uncertainty.

GOLD PRICES IN PAKISTAN FALL

The economic pressure is also being reflected in commodity markets. In Pakistan, gold prices saw a notable decline, with 24-karat gold per tola dropping by Rs3,800 in a single day, according to the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association. Prices for 10 grams of gold and silver also recorded decreases in both local and international markets.

Globally, gold prices fell by $38 per ounce, while silver also edged lower. Analysts suggest the dip may reflect short-term market adjustments as investors react to shifting expectations around inflation, interest rates, and geopolitical developments.

Despite the temporary decline in precious metals, the broader outlook remains uncertain, with energy prices and ongoing conflict continuing to pose risks to economic stability worldwide.

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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Business Forum has submitted budget proposals to the Ministry of Finance for 2026–27, calling for a shift in economic policy towards growth and relief for businesses.

Pakistan Business Forum President Khawaja Mehboob said that the business community was currently facing “widespread frustration” and urged the government to abolish the super tax, which he said was originally introduced as a temporary measure but had become permanent.

He called for targeted steps in the upcoming budget to reduce the cost of doing business and for a gradual cut in corporate tax rates to provide relief to industry.

Mehboob also proposed introducing a fixed monthly tax of 10,000 rupees for traders to expand the tax net, saying that once paid, no further questioning should be carried out. He suggested integrating the fixed tax into electricity bills to simplify collection for both the government and businesses.

He further demanded the removal of sales tax on local cotton seed and oilcake to boost textile exports, saying cotton production had fallen to a 40-year low after the imposition of sales tax in recent years.

The forum also called for a seven-year tax holiday under the Green Pakistan Initiative to promote corporate farming and urged the government to withdraw Section 7A and amend Sections 8 and 8B of tax laws to revive investment in the construction sector.

Mehboob said the budget should move away from a “revenue-generation mindset” and instead focus on economic expansion.

He also proposed restrictions on non-filers holding more than three vehicles, stronger measures against under-invoicing, and reforms to require housing societies to convert into public limited companies to protect public investment.

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Gold prices recorded a significant decline in Pakistan on the back of weaker global trends, offering some relief to buyers after recent record highs.

According to the All Pakistan Sarafa Association, the price of gold per tola dropped by Rs 3,800 in the local market, bringing it down to Rs 479,962. Similarly, the price of 10 grams of gold fell by Rs 3,257, settling at Rs 411,490.

The drop mirrors a broader softening in international markets, where gold prices have edged lower due to persistent inflation concerns and uncertainty over United States monetary policy.

In global trading, spot gold slipped by 0.3 per cent to around $4,599 per ounce, while US futures also declined slightly. Analysts say investors are becoming more cautious as expectations grow that interest rates could remain elevated for a longer period.

Higher interest rates typically reduce the appeal of gold, as it does not offer returns like interest-bearing assets. With central banks signaling a tough stance on inflation, many investors are shifting toward alternatives that provide better yields.

The Federal Reserve has reinforced this outlook by keeping its policy stance unchanged in its latest meeting, while warning that inflation risks remain elevated.

Geopolitical tensions are also shaping market sentiment. Ongoing developments involving the United States and Iran, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, are being closely monitored by investors. Any progress in diplomatic efforts could influence oil prices and overall market stability.

Oil prices have remained above $100 per barrel, adding to inflationary pressure and strengthening expectations that central banks will avoid cutting rates in the near term.

Recent data has further underscored inflation concerns. The US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Index rose by 0.7 per cent in March, marking its highest increase since 2022 and signaling persistent price pressures in the global economy.

Meanwhile, other precious metals such as silver, platinum, and palladium showed mixed trends, reflecting ongoing uncertainty in financial markets.

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Gold prices edged lower in global trading as investors reacted to persistent inflation concerns and uncertainty surrounding US monetary policy, dampening demand for the traditional safe-haven asset.

Spot gold declined by 0.3 per cent to around $4,599 per ounce, while US gold futures also slipped to approximately $4,611. Analysts say the dip reflects growing caution among investors, who are increasingly factoring in the likelihood of prolonged higher interest rates.

Market sentiment has also been influenced by geopolitical developments, particularly ongoing tensions involving the United States and Iran. Investors are closely watching any signs of progress in potential diplomatic efforts, as these could impact both energy markets and broader financial stability.

US President Donald Trump recently indicated that Washington may take action to clear shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route. At the same time, Iranian media reports suggest Tehran is reviewing a US response delivered through Pakistan, adding another layer of uncertainty to the situation.

Oil prices have remained elevated above $100 per barrel, intensifying fears that central banks may keep interest rates higher for longer to combat inflation. This environment tends to weigh on gold, which does not offer interest returns, making it less attractive compared to yield-generating investments.

The Federal Reserve reinforced this outlook by maintaining its current interest rate stance in its latest meeting. Officials signaled caution, warning that inflation risks could rise further amid geopolitical instability, including tensions linked to Iran.

Recent economic data supports these concerns. The US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Index, closely watched by policymakers, rose by 0.7 per cent in March, marking its sharpest increase since mid-2022 and underscoring persistent inflationary pressure.

Meanwhile, other precious metals showed mixed performance. Silver, platinum, and palladium recorded modest price fluctuations, reflecting broader market uncertainty.

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Pakistan’s plans to introduce widespread 5G services are being slowed by a critical shortage of optical fibre infrastructure, industry experts say, despite recent spectrum auctions and limited pilot projects.

While telecom operators have begun testing 5G in select urban locations, the underlying network required to support high-speed connectivity remains underdeveloped. Data from a latest report by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) shows that less than one-fifth of mobile towers in the country are connected to fibre, leaving the majority dependent on older microwave systems that cannot handle 5G-level data demands.

CONNECTIVITY GAP WIDENS

Although Pakistan has laid down over 200,000 kilometres of fibre cable, the distribution is uneven and insufficient for next-generation services. Major cities like Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad continue to experience relatively slow internet speeds, while more remote areas such as Balochistan and Azad Kashmir face even greater connectivity challenges.

Experts note that without a strong fibre backbone, 5G networks cannot deliver the promised speed, reliability, and low latency.

BARRIERS TO EXPANSION

The rollout of fibre networks is being held back by multiple issues, including complicated approval processes for laying cables, which often involve several government bodies and can take months to resolve. High deployment costs, economic pressures, and low returns for telecom companies have also discouraged aggressive expansion.

Operational challenges, such as difficult terrain, urban congestion, flood risks, and a shortage of trained technical workers, add further delays to infrastructure development.

WHAT NEEDS TO CHANGE

Analysts say Pakistan must significantly increase fibre connectivity, potentially to more than half of all cell sites, to make 5G viable at scale. Greater coordination between regulators, government agencies, and telecom providers will be essential, along with policy reforms to simplify approvals and encourage investment.

With demand for digital services and IT exports on the rise, improved internet infrastructure could play a key role in economic growth. However, without closing the fibre gap, Pakistan’s transition to 5G may remain slower than expected.

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Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven a sharp withdrawal of foreign investment from Pakistan’s Treasury bills, with analysts warning that recovery may remain elusive if instability persists.

According to latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), overseas investors have largely exited Pakistan’s domestic debt market, once a favored destination due to its comparatively high yields. Despite a recent increase in T-bill returns to nearly 12 per cent, aimed at attracting capital, more than 94 per cent of foreign holdings had been pulled out by mid-April.

Market participants attribute the outflows to heightened uncertainty stemming from ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, which have disrupted energy markets and intensified economic pressure on import-dependent countries like Pakistan. The country’s weekly oil import bill has surged significantly, further dampening investor sentiment.

Between July and mid-April of the current fiscal year, total inflows into T-bills stood at $975 million, nearly offset by $917 million in outflows, leaving only a modest net investment. However, analysts note that Pakistan has met key external obligations, including substantial debt repayments and profit repatriation, which could support investor confidence once regional conditions stabilise.

Experts suggest that a resolution to the conflict could revive foreign interest, especially as Pakistan re-engages with global capital markets. Meanwhile, higher interest rates and improved yields may continue to attract domestic investors, even as foreign participation remains subdued.

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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s annual inflation rate rose to 10.9 per cent in April, the highest level in 20 months, driven largely by a sharp increase in transport costs, official data showed on Saturday.

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics said the Consumer Price Index (CPI) accelerated from 7.3 per cent in March, marking its highest reading since July 2024 and exceeding the State Bank of Pakistan’s 5–7 per cent target range.

The surge came shortly after the central bank raised its policy rate by 100 basis points to 11.5 per cent, citing inflationary pressures.

Authorities attributed the spike primarily to rising transport and fuel costs, which have been impacted by higher global oil prices following tensions in the Middle East and disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.

Transport inflation jumped to 29.9 per cent year-on-year in April from 12.5 per cent a month earlier, while housing and utilities rose to 16.8 per cent from 11.5 per cent. Food and non-alcoholic beverage inflation also increased to 7.6 per cent from 3.6 per cent.

On a month-on-month basis, CPI rose 2.5 per cent in April, the fastest pace in nine months, compared with 1.2 per cent in March.

The increase adds pressure on policymakers as Pakistan continues to grapple with external shocks and rising energy costs that are feeding into broader inflationary trends.

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Fresh details have revealed the significant tax burden included in fuel prices across Pakistan, with a large portion of petrol and diesel costs attributed to government levies and duties.

According to sources in the Ministry of Energy, approximately 32 per cent of the price of petrol consists of taxes, amounting to Rs 129.72 per litre. This includes Rs 23.72 in customs duty, Rs 103.50 in petroleum levy, and Rs 2.50 under a climate support levy.

For high-speed diesel, taxes make up around 21 per cent of the total price, translating to Rs 82.81 per litre. The tax structure includes Rs 51.62 in customs duty, Rs 28.69 in levy, and Rs 2.50 in climate-related charges.

Meanwhile, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has announced further changes in fuel prices. Light diesel has been increased by Rs 17.30 per litre, taking its new price to Rs 287.54. In contrast, kerosene prices have been reduced by Rs 4.45 per litre, bringing the new rate to Rs 360.76.

The latest adjustments come a day after the government raised petrol and high-speed diesel prices, adding further pressure on consumers already facing rising living costs.

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Gold prices in Pakistan rebounded sharply on Thursday, reversing losses from the previous session and highlighting continued volatility in the bullion market.

According to the latest market data, the price of gold surged by Rs 4,400 per tola, pushing it up to Rs 483,962. Similarly, the rate for 10 grams of gold increased by Rs 3,772, reaching Rs 414,919. The recovery comes just a day after a notable decline, when prices had dropped significantly following a recent rally.

In the previous session, gold had fallen by Rs 5,500 per tola to Rs 479,562, while 10 grams slipped to Rs 411,147. That drop was seen as a correction after gold briefly touched record highs near Rs 493,962 earlier in the week.

Market analysts attribute the latest rebound to ongoing fluctuations in international gold prices, as well as currency movements and persistent global uncertainty. Gold, often viewed as a safe-haven asset, continues to react strongly to geopolitical tensions, inflation concerns, and shifts in investor sentiment.

Experts caution that the market is likely to remain unstable in the near term, with prices expected to move in response to global economic signals. Investors are closely watching international trends before making further decisions, as both upward spikes and sudden corrections remain possible.

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Global oil prices climbed further on Thursday as ongoing tensions tied to the US-Iran conflict continue to disrupt supply from the Middle East, raising concerns about prolonged shortages in the global energy market.

Benchmark Brent crude rose above $119 per barrel, extending a multi-day rally, while West Texas Intermediate also posted gains after several strong sessions. The surge comes amid stalled diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

According to Reuters, market anxiety intensified after US President Donald Trump held talks with oil companies about managing the impact of a potential long-term blockade of Iranian ports. Analysts say the chances of reopening the Strait of Hormuz remain slim in the near term.

The situation has significantly constrained oil flows, with Iran restricting most shipping through the Strait while the US continues its countermeasures. Meanwhile, the OPEC+ group is expected to consider only a modest production increase, even as the United Arab Emirates prepares to exit the alliance, a move analysts say could weaken its influence over global oil prices.

Despite this, experts believe it may take months for Gulf producers to restore output to pre-conflict levels, keeping upward pressure on prices in the near term.

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