Pakistan has amassed an additional Rs 180 billion in petroleum levy revenues over the last six weeks, underscoring a significant increase in fuel-related income during a period marked by frequent petroleum price adjustments. This rise highlights the government’s reliance on petroleum levies as a crucial non-tax revenue stream amid fluctuating global oil prices.
In March 2026 alone, collections exceeded those of the same month the previous year by Rs 52 billion. From July through mid-April, total petroleum levy receipts reached Rs 1,234 billion, representing an approximate Rs 400 billion increase compared to the prior fiscal year. This growth reflects ongoing government efforts to align fuel prices with international market trends and fiscal policy objectives.
Recently, petrol and diesel prices have undergone several upward revisions driven by global crude price volatility, exchange rate challenges, and fiscal adjustments tied to IMF-supported targets. These price hikes have directly boosted revenue collection but have also intensified inflationary pressures on consumers and transportation costs nationwide.
Monthly data reveal steady revenue inflows throughout the fiscal year, with Rs 157 billion collected in July, Rs 103.46 billion in August, Rs 112.85 billion in September, Rs 143.48 billion in October, Rs 148.36 billion in November, Rs 162.46 billion in December, Rs 160.76 billion in January, Rs 120.39 billion in February, and Rs 139.48 billion in March. This upward trend is attributed to both increased fuel consumption and higher per-litre levy rates implemented during the year.
