The federal government has clarified that there is no proposal under consideration to introduce differential pricing for petroleum products based on the mode of payment or consumer category. Sources within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have confirmed that the Finance Bill 2025-26 does not include any provision suggesting different petroleum prices for consumers using debit or credit cards compared to those paying with cash.
According to senior government officials, the current pricing structure mandates a single, uniform price for all petroleum products, including petrol, across the country. This price, once fixed by the federal government, applies equally to every consumer regardless of how they make their purchase. Officials emphasized that under current legal frameworks, it is not permissible to differentiate petroleum prices based on consumer payment methods.
When questioned about the existence of varying sales tax rates at Islamabad-based restaurants and the imposition of withholding tax on bank cash withdrawals, officials explained that petroleum product pricing is strictly regulated by the federal government and cannot be subject to the same differentiation mechanisms. They reiterated that the pricing policy for petroleum products remains consistent and legally binding, ensuring equal treatment for all consumers.
This clarification comes amid speculation that the government may consider introducing incentives or varying prices for digital payment users in the upcoming budget. However, officials have firmly dismissed these reports, stating that no such proposal is under discussion at the FBR or in the Finance Bill 2025-26.
