Petroleum dealers divided over nationwide shutdown

KARACHI: Petroleum dealers and owners across Pakistan are divided over the nationwide strike call announced for their demands.

All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners Association has announced an indefinite nationwide strike.

However, the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has said that they have not yet decided and will take a decision in a meeting to help held today (Wednesday).

The disagreement within the petroleum retail sector has created uncertainty over the extent of the strike, as opposing factions continue to debate whether closing fuel stations is an appropriate response to press for higher margins.

READ MORE: Petroleum dealers back daily fuel pricing reform, seek higher margins

PPDA Vice President Tariq Hassan said the government had assured them that dealers’ issues would be addressed and had sought one week’s time. They added that the PPDA Central Committee would meet in Karachi on Wednesday to make decisions in the best interest of petroleum dealers.

“Owners association has announced strike without consultation and we are not going to strike so far but will take a final decision after discussing all issues in a meeting today,” he added.

Tariq said that meeting was very fruitful and government is agreed with our demands, but seeking some time to get approval from Prime Minister.

“Our demands were increase in commission and revision of fuel prices as per previous policy,” he mentioned.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026