Pakistan Inflation Projected To Reach 7.4% In February 2026

In a significant development, the prices of all petroleum products in Pakistan are expected to rise by Rs4.50 to Rs7 per litre for the fortnight ending March 15, 2026, due to a slight upward trend in the international market, as reported by Dawn. This increase is likely to exacerbate the inflationary pressures already affecting consumers, with petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) being particularly impactful on the budgets of the middle and lower-middle class. The current ex-depot price of petrol stands at Rs258.17 per litre, while HSD is priced at Rs275.70, but both are sold at higher rates in retail markets. The government has been charging significant taxes on these products, which contributes to the overall inflation rate, projected to reach 7.4% year-on-year in February 2026, up from 5.8% in January 2026, according to multiple sources including Profit Pakistan and Business Recorder.