Pakistan’s transport sector has suffered another setback as the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance (PGTA) announced a 15 percent increase in goods transport freight charges following the latest rise in petroleum prices. The decision is expected to increase the cost of transporting goods across the country and could put further pressure on inflation.
The announcement comes after the federal government increased the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel under its new fuel pricing mechanism. Transporters say soaring fuel costs, higher taxes, and the absence of government relief have made it increasingly difficult to continue operations without raising freight rates.
Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shehzad Awan said transport operators are facing severe financial pressure due to rising operating expenses. He called on the government to immediately withdraw toll tax, withholding tax, and transport challans, arguing that these additional costs are making the transport business unsustainable.
Awan warned that many transporters may be forced to park their vehicles if the government does not provide immediate relief. He said current policies have pushed transport operators to the brink and threatened the stability of the country’s logistics and supply chain network.
The government recently increased the price of petrol by Rs5.44 per litre, taking it to Rs316.15 per litre. High-speed diesel recorded a much larger increase of Rs31.05 per litre, pushing its price to Rs354.35 per litre. The revised fuel prices came into effect on July 18 and will remain applicable until July 20.
Industry experts believe the sharp increase in diesel prices will have widespread economic consequences because diesel is the primary fuel used for freight transport, heavy machinery, and commercial vehicles. Higher transportation costs are expected to raise the prices of food items, construction materials, industrial products, and other essential goods across Pakistan.
With freight charges already increased by 15 percent, businesses are likely to pass additional logistics costs on to consumers. Economists warn that the latest increase could intensify inflationary pressures at a time when households and industries are already struggling with higher living and operating expenses.
Transport industry representatives have urged the government to introduce measures that can reduce operational costs and prevent further disruptions to the supply chain. They argue that without targeted relief, continued increases in fuel prices may weaken the transport sector and place additional pressure on Pakistan’s economy.
Also read: Transporters Reduce Fares Nationwide Following Petrol Price Cut
