Petroleum Sales Surge to 1.44 Million Tons as Pakistan’s Fuel Consumption Climbs 19% in March 2026

 

Pakistan’s energy consumption experienced a robust surge in March 2026. Oil marketing firms (OMCs) recorded aggregate petroleum sales of 1.44 million tons, representing a 19% expansion from the 1.22 million tons sold in March 2025.

Based on figures from Topline Securities, volumes also climbed 13% on a month-over-month basis relative to February 2026. This upward trend persisted even as petrol and diesel costs spiked due to escalating international crude prices and Middle Eastern geopolitical friction.

Motor Spirit (Petrol) sales rose by 16% annually, reaching 670,000 tons. High Speed Diesel (HSD) served as the primary catalyst, jumping 21% to approximately 590,000 tons. Furnace oil usage also played a role in the general uptick.

During the initial nine months of the 2025-26 fiscal year (July–March), cumulative sales hit 12.4 million tons, marking a 5% improvement over the corresponding period in the prior year.

Observers attribute the March peak to heightened holiday transit, invigorated economic output, and intense demand within the logistics sector.

Conversely, market analysts caution that April's performance may decelerate following additional price increases and supply chain disruptions linked to regional instability.

While the boost in fuel usage signals a tentative rebound for Pakistan’s economy, specialists note that future demand hinges on price stability and a decrease in foreign oil dependency.