Petroleum Dealers Issue 48-Hour Deadline to Government
Petroleum Dealers across Pakistan have given the government a 48-hour deadline to address their long-standing demand for an increase in sales commission, warning that failure to respond could lead to major decisions affecting petrol pump operations nationwide.
The decision was made during a key meeting chaired by Abdul Sami Khan, where participants agreed to formally communicate their concerns to the federal government.
PPDA Sends Final Appeal to Petroleum Minister
According to association representatives, a letter is being sent to Ali Pervaiz Malik, seeking immediate intervention on the commission issue.
Speaking to the media at Federation House in Karachi, Malik Khuda Bakhsh said that operating petrol pumps under the current commission structure has become increasingly difficult.
He stated that dealers are facing severe financial challenges and urged the government to take immediate notice of the situation.
Dealers Cite Financial Pressure and Falling Diesel Sales
Malik Khuda Bakhsh said that petroleum dealers are struggling to sustain their businesses due to rising operational costs and declining profitability.
He revealed that diesel sales have significantly declined across the country, while smuggled fuel continues to gain a larger share of the market.
According to him, the growing influx of illegal petroleum products is creating serious challenges for legitimate fuel businesses and affecting overall industry performance.
Oil Refineries Raise Concerns Over Smuggling
The Petroleum Dealers community also highlighted concerns raised by the country’s oil refining sector.
Malik Khuda Bakhsh stated that five oil refineries have formally informed the government about the increasing impact of petroleum product smuggling on the industry.
He noted that declining diesel sales have led to growing storage pressures, with refinery storage facilities reportedly approaching capacity limits.
Industry stakeholders believe the issue requires urgent policy attention to protect legal businesses and maintain market stability.
Call for Government Engagement
The PPDA leadership said that during periods of regional uncertainty and Middle East tensions, petroleum dealers cooperated fully with government requirements.
However, they argue that dealers are now facing their own financial difficulties and require immediate support to remain operational.
Malik Khuda Bakhsh urged the Petroleum Minister to visit Karachi and review the challenges faced by fuel retailers, including financial losses and shrinking business margins.
Future Course of Action Expected Soon
The association warned that if no response is received from the Petroleum Minister within the next two days, its leadership will announce a future course of action.
According to PPDA officials, the organization’s 30-member committee, led by Chairman Abdul Sami Khan, will decide on further measures if their demands remain unresolved.
Petroleum Dealers maintain that without an increase in sales commission and relief measures, continuing operations under the current circumstances may become increasingly difficult for fuel retailers across the country.
