LPG prices soar Rs 600 per kg in some areas

ISLAMABAD: Consumers across Pakistan are facing a sharp increase in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices, with reports that LPG is being sold for more than Rs600 per kilogram in some areas.

The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has set the official LPG price for June at Rs309 per kilogram, but market prices in many cities are much higher.

According to market reports, LPG prices have increased due to uncertainty in the energy market caused by tensions between Iran and the United States. Distributors, marketing companies, and retailers are reportedly selling LPG at different rates across the country.

The Pakistan LPG Distributors Association says the country uses more than 6 million kilograms of LPG every day. However, many consumers are unable to buy LPG at the official price and are forced to pay much higher rates.

Retailers say they cannot sell LPG at government rates because they buy supplies at much higher prices. A shopkeeper claimed that retailers are receiving LPG at around Rs550 per kilogram, making it impossible to sell at the official price.

He alleged that marketing companies and plant operators are charging high prices, while action is mainly being taken against small retailers.

The retailer also claimed that some suppliers do not provide receipts and refuse to sell LPG if customers ask for proper documentation.

Retailers say rising wholesale prices and limited action by regulators have increased pressure on both businesses and consumers.

With daily LPG consumption exceeding 6 million kilograms, experts say the large difference between official and market prices is creating an extra financial burden for consumers who are already dealing with inflation and rising living costs.