High-speed diesel in Pakistan has crossed the psychological Rs400 mark, reaching Rs403.32 per litre after the latest fortnightly revision effective 12 September 2026. The increase of Rs5.28 comes as industry data shows several oil marketing companies running well below the mandatory 20-day supply buffer, raising questions about the fuel supply chain’s stability heading into autumn.
According to industry figures, twelve of the country’s twenty licensed oil marketing companies have fallen below the 20-day threshold, with some smaller players holding as little as one to three days of diesel stock. Officials at these companies say the shortfall reflects pricing uncertainty rather than an actual supply crunch.
Why Companies Are Holding Back
Oil marketing companies typically maintain a buffer stock to guard against sudden demand spikes or import delays. But several firms are deliberately keeping inventories thin because they fear the government could lower fuel prices in the next pricing cycle, leaving them stuck with expensive stock bought at today’s higher rates.
The Oil Companies Advisory Council has petitioned the Petroleum Division for a more predictable pricing mechanism to reduce this kind of speculative behaviour. Some companies are also dealing with delayed price differential claims from regulators and tighter working capital, which limits their ability to import and store fuel confidently.
What It Means for Transport and Supply Chains
Diesel is the backbone fuel for Pakistan’s freight trucks, buses, tractors, and irrigation pumps, so sustained low stock levels at multiple companies could eventually translate into localised shortages at the pump, particularly in smaller cities that rely on a narrower set of suppliers.
Larger companies such as Pakistan State Oil continue to hold healthier reserves above a month’s supply, which should cushion the immediate risk of nationwide disruption. Still, the wider trend shows how unpredictable fortnightly pricing can ripple through the energy supply chain well beyond the price consumers see at the pump.
Transporters and farmers dependent on diesel-run machinery should factor in potential regional availability gaps over the coming weeks, especially if the next OGRA price review brings another sharp swing. For context on the broader pricing picture, see our coverage of today’s petrol price increase and the proposed cut to the petroleum levy.