KARACHI — Goods transporters in Pakistan have announced a seven percent increase in freight charges. The move follows a sharp rise in fuel prices across the country.
President of the All Pakistan Goods Transporters Association, Malik Shahzad Awan, announced the increase. He said higher diesel costs had made transportation more expensive.
According to Awan, diesel prices increased by Rs26.88 per litre within seven days. He added that petrol prices also rose by Rs20 per litre.
The fuel price increases have raised operating costs for transport companies. Transporters say the higher expenses have made the freight increase necessary.
The new charges could affect the cost of goods transported across Pakistan. Higher transportation expenses may also put additional pressure on prices of essential commodities.
The latest freight increase comes after the government announced new fuel prices. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority recommended changes for September 18.
Petrol received only a small reduction under the latest adjustment. Its price was cut by 43 paisa per litre.
The price of petrol fell from Rs391.22 to Rs390.79 per litre. The latest rate applies to Motor Spirit, also known as Super or MS 92 RON.
However, diesel consumers faced another increase during the same adjustment. The price of high-speed diesel rose by Rs3.47 per litre.
The new diesel price stands at Rs424.92 per litre. Diesel is widely used by commercial vehicles and goods transport fleets.
The latest changes come after a significant rise in fuel prices earlier this month. Petrol had increased by Rs26.87 per litre between September 9 and September 17.
The increase came before the latest 43-paisa reduction. This left petrol prices at nearly the previous level despite the small adjustment.
Goods transporters have linked their higher freight charges directly to rising fuel expenses. The association said the additional costs could not be absorbed by transport operators.
The seven percent increase could affect businesses that depend on road transportation. Retailers and suppliers may also face higher distribution costs.
Goods transporters play an important role in moving food and other products across the country. Changes in freight charges can therefore affect supply costs in different markets.
Consumers could eventually face higher prices if businesses pass on increased transportation expenses. The extent of the impact will depend on fuel prices and market conditions.
In other news read more about Petrol Hits Rs384 in Pakistan as Fuel Price Surge Shows No Signs of Slowing
The latest development highlights the pressure faced by the transport sector. Operators are dealing with higher fuel costs while maintaining nationwide goods movement.
