TRADE & ECONOMY

Petroleum Dealers Oppose Deregulation, Warn of Smuggling & Adulteration

Chairman Abdul Sami Khan warns that allowing petrol stations to set prices will lead to smuggling, adulteration, and unfair pricing.
2025-02-20
Petroleum Dealers Oppose Deregulation, Warn of Smuggling & Adulteration

Islamabad: The All Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (APPDA) has raised serious concerns over the government’s proposed fuel deregulation policy, warning that it could lead to widespread smuggling and adulteration of petroleum products.

In a video message, APPDA Chairman Abdul Sami Khan criticized the plan, stating that:
โœ… Deregulation would allow petrol stations to set their own prices, leading to price inconsistencies and unfair market practices.
โœ… Smuggling of petroleum products from Iran is rising, urging the federal government to negotiate a legal trade agreement with Iran.
โœ… The association is demanding a โ‚น13 per litre margin, compared to the current 4% margin.

Emergency Meeting & Protests Planned

๐Ÿ“Œ In response, the association has called an emergency central committee meeting.
๐Ÿ“Œ Protest banners will be displayed nationwide against the deregulation policy.
๐Ÿ“Œ The Petroleum Ministry will receive an urgent letter rejecting the deregulation decision.

Government & OGRA’s Response

๐Ÿ” The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has privately backed the dealers' concerns, though it has not issued an official statement.

๐Ÿ”ด Minister Musaddiq Malik was criticized for ignoring the concerns of petroleum dealers.

๐Ÿ“ข "Deregulation will NOT result in lower fuel prices for the public," said Abdul Sami Khan, urging the government to reconsider the policy.