The Petroleum Division informed the participants that the fuel supply throughout the country remains stable and satisfactory
ISLAMABAD:
In a key policy move aimed at addressing the current energy challenge, the government decided to introduce a targeted subsidy mechanism through a mobile application, and authorities agreed to accelerate a technology-driven system to ensure transparent and efficient aid delivery.
The decision was made during a high-level consultative meeting on oil prices and subsidy reforms, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, where federal and provincial leaders converged on the need to balance relief with fiscal discipline.
The meeting underscored that while limited fiscal space limits broad-based subsidies, a targeted, data-driven approach could help channel benefits to those who need them most.
During the session, the Petroleum Division informed participants that fuel supplies across the country remain stable and satisfactory, easing concerns over shortages despite regional uncertainties.
The IT Ministry has put forward a proposal for a modern, technology-based system to manage targeted subsidies on petroleum products, with an aim to improve transparency and ensure efficient distribution.
Provincial representatives echoed support for coordinated action.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah appreciated the uninterrupted supply of fuel and stressed the importance of promoting a culture of conservation among the public.
Representing Punjab, Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said the benefits of falling global oil prices must be directly passed on to consumers, while calling for formulation of multiple policy options in line with evolving conditions.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Finance Minister Muzammil Aslam praised the efforts of the federal government, noting that Pakistan had managed to maintain fuel supply more effectively than many countries in the region.
Balochistan Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani also presented his proposals during the meeting.
Officials informed the meeting that the government’s fiscal space remains limited, largely confined to revenue generated through the oil tax, making it essential that any aid package be carefully calibrated to safeguard economic stability.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stressed that the current situation should not be seen as a challenge but as an opportunity for structural reforms.
He highlighted the need for data-driven decision-making to improve transparency in tax and subsidy systems, while highlighting the importance of encouraging responsible consumption among the public.
The meeting concluded with a consensus to finalize the targeted subsidy framework using modern technology as soon as possible, while ensuring close coordination between the federal and provincial governments to implement the system effectively.
