Pakistan has emerged as the world’s second most fuel-unaffordable country, as petrol and diesel prices have surged sharply in recent weeks, placing immense pressure on consumers.
Petrol prices have climbed to Rs458.40 per liter, reflecting a 42.7% increase, while diesel has jumped by 54.9% to Rs520.35 per liter, one of the steepest hikes seen in recent months.
The surge has been largely attributed to global oil market disruptions triggered by tensions involving Iran, which have driven international prices higher.
At Rs.458/litre, Pakistan now has the 2nd most unaffordable petrol on earth relative to income. Only Ethiopia — with a $1.50 daily wage and $1.30/litre fuel — ranks worse. Every other country, including the poorest in Asia and Africa, is behind Pakistan on this measure.
— Omer Azhar (@OmerAzhar96) April 2, 2026
In terms of affordability relative to average income, Pakistan now ranks just behind Ethiopia, where low wages make fuel even less accessible. Despite having lower nominal fuel prices, Ethiopia’s income levels place it at the bottom of the global affordability index.
The situation contrasts sharply with oil-rich nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, where fuel prices remain significantly lower, often below Rs200 per liter in Pakistani currency terms.
Pakistan’s heavy reliance on imported oil has left it particularly vulnerable to global shocks.
This latest increase marks the second major hike in under a month, following an earlier rise of around 20% in March, further intensifying the burden on households and businesses alike.
