The Petroleum Division informed the participants that fuel supplies across the country remain stable and satisfactory.
ISLAMABAD:
In a key policy measure to address the current energy challenge, the government has decided to introduce a targeted subsidy mechanism through a mobile application, with authorities agreeing to accelerate the establishment of a technology-driven system to ensure transparent and efficient delivery of relief.
The decision was taken at a high-level consultative meeting on oil prices and subsidy reform, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, where federal and provincial leaders converged on the need to balance relief and fiscal discipline.
The meeting highlighted that while limited fiscal space restricts large-scale grants, 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 remained stable and satisfactory, easing fears of shortages despite regional uncertainties.
The IT Ministry has presented a proposal to set up a modern and technological system to administer targeted subsidies on petroleum products, aimed at improving transparency and ensuring efficient distribution.
Provincial representatives echoed their 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, State Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said the benefits of lower global oil prices must be passed on directly to consumers, while calling for the formulation of multiple policy options suited to the changing conditions.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Finance Minister Muzammil Aslam praised the federal government’s efforts, pointing out that Pakistan had managed to maintain fuel supplies more effectively than many countries in the region.
Balochistan Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani also presented his proposals in the meeting.
Officials informed the meeting that the government’s fiscal space remains limited, largely limited to revenues generated by 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 the transparency of tax and subsidy systems, while also emphasizing the importance of encouraging responsible consumption among the public.
The meeting concluded with 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.
