ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced that Pakistan’s Fuel Subsidy Scheme will continue until the end of December, providing further financial relief to millions of eligible citizens amid rising global energy prices.
The prime minister made the announcement while chairing a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad on Wednesday. He said the government was taking steps to protect ordinary people from increasing petroleum and electricity costs.
According to Shehbaz Sharif, more than 15 million people have directly benefited from the fuel relief programme, while approximately Rs28 billion has been spent on its implementation.
He added that the government had also prevented a proposed Rs15 per litre increase in petrol prices from being passed on to consumers.
Fuel Subsidy Scheme to Continue Until December
The prime minister said the relief initiative was progressing successfully and would remain operational until at least December 31.
He appreciated the efforts of the petroleum ministry and relevant authorities in coordinating with oil refineries to manage the financial impact of rising international oil prices.
The government aims to reduce the burden on lower-income households and ensure that eligible consumers continue receiving assistance through the programme.
Shehbaz also stressed the importance of effective implementation and warned that petrol pumps failing to cooperate with the subsidy programme would face action.
Government Makes Preparations for Winter Energy Demand
During the meeting, the prime minister also reviewed arrangements to maintain adequate energy supplies during the upcoming winter season.
He said the government was working to ensure the availability of liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and petroleum products to meet the country’s energy requirements.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted efforts to introduce greater transparency and competition in the energy sector.
He also claimed that the influence of the so-called LPG mafia had ended following the introduction of a new system for managing supply and distribution.
State-owned companies, including Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and PARCO, are playing an important role in the government’s energy arrangements.
Pakistan Continues Diplomatic Efforts for Regional Stability
The prime minister also discussed Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement with regional countries to promote peace and reduce tensions.
He referred to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s visit to Iran and meetings involving Pakistani, Saudi and Turkish representatives with Iranian leadership in Tehran.
Shehbaz described the discussions as positive and cordial, saying Pakistan remained committed to supporting regional peace and cooperation.
He also expressed concern over rising international oil prices and their potential impact on economic stability.
Rs160 Billion Development Package Finalised for KP
Another major announcement during the cabinet meeting was a Rs160 billion development and security package for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The prime minister said peace and stability in the province remained a major government priority.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the fight against terrorism and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating security threats.
Shehbaz also stressed the importance of cooperation between federal authorities, provincial administration and security institutions to improve the situation.
Finance Minister Congratulated on G24 Chairmanship
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also congratulated Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Pakistan assuming the chairmanship of the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four (G24).
Pakistan took over the group’s chairmanship on November 1, 2026, providing the country with an opportunity to represent the interests of developing economies in international financial discussions.
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The cabinet meeting concluded with discussions focusing on public relief, energy security, regional diplomacy and economic development.
