The Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association has asked the government to take immediate action against the alleged misuse of solvent oil in petrol and diesel, saying the practice is harming the fuel market, damaging vehicles, and causing heavy tax losses.
In a letter sent to Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, the association claimed that some operators are blending solvent oil with motor spirit and high-speed diesel to increase profit margins. Solvent oil is cheaper and taxed differently, which creates an incentive for illegal mixing. The matter was also discussed at a recent meeting of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s Central Standing Committee on Petroleum Products and Dealers.
According to the association, such blending can cause engine damage and reduce fuel quality, leading to loss of consumer trust. It also affects legitimate fuel retailers who follow the rules. The PPDA warned that the practice results in revenue losses for the government due to tax evasion and violations of petroleum regulations.
The association has called for a detailed investigation into the production and import of solvent oil. It suggested reviewing refinery output, customs records, sales data, and distribution channels to track possible misuse. The PPDA also recommended making it mandatory to document buyers and end users, closely monitoring transportation and storage, conducting surprise inspections, and carrying out regular laboratory testing of fuel samples. It urged strict penalties for those involved in adulteration networks.
PPDA Chairman Abdul Sami Khan said that coordinated action among refineries, importers, distributors, and regulatory bodies is necessary to stop the illegal practice. A copy of the letter was also sent to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority, requesting regulatory action.
While solvent oil is legally produced for industrial uses, such as in paints and other approved sectors, dealers said its diversion into transport fuels poses serious risks to consumers and state revenues.
