KARACHI: Pakistan’s petroleum dealers have issued a stern warning to the federal government, threatening to suspend the sale of petrol and diesel immediately after Eid al-Fitr if their longstanding demand for revised profit margins is not met.
The ultimatum was delivered by the leadership of the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) at a press conference held at the Karachi Press Club on Friday, March 13, 2026.
The PPDA has given the government until March 26 to increase dealers’ profit margins from the current 2.59 percent to 8 percent, a demand that has gained urgency in the wake of a steep Rs55-per-litre hike in petrol and diesel prices. At present, dealers earn approximately Rs8.64 per litre on fuel sales, a figure the association describes as wholly inadequate given the rising cost pressures on the sector.
Speaking at the press conference, PPDA leaders Abdul Sami Khan, Tariq Hasan, and Ameer Khan Masood argued that the combined effect of the petroleum levy and recent price increases has placed an unsustainable burden on both dealers and end consumers. The association further accused oil marketing companies (OMCs) of deliberately capping oil supplies to retail outlets, a practice it claims has led to fuel shortages at numerous pumps across the country.
The PPDA leadership also called for a formal government investigation into the conduct of OMCs, alleging that these companies have reaped significant inventory gains from profits on old fuel stocks, profits dealers say have come at the expense of those operating at the retail level.
This is not the first time dealers have raised these concerns. According to the PPDA, they have been pressing the government for upward margin revisions for over two years, with little to no response. Industry observers warn that a post-Eid strike, if carried out, could cause considerable disruption to fuel supply chains at a time when transport and economic activity typically surge.
Chand Raat is the most electric night of the year in Pakistan. The moment the moon is sighted, announcements ring from mosques and television channels, and families immediately head to bazaars, markets, and malls. Festivities begin almost instantly and continue all night until Fajr. Mehndi. Bangles. Last-minute outfits. Street food at midnight. It is all part of the experience. This guide covers the best chand raat market in Lahore 2026, the top chand raat bazaar in Karachi, and where to go for chand raat shopping in Islamabad in one place, with verified 2026 links and ticket details.
Table of Contents
When is Chand Raat 2026?
Best Chand Raat Market in Lahore 2026
Top Chand Raat Bazaar in Karachi
Chand Raat Shopping in Islamabad
Eid Shopping Tips for Pakistan
FAQs
When is Chand Raat 2026?
Chand Raat in Pakistan depends on the sighting of the Shawwal moon. Based on lunar calendar predictions, Chand Raat 2026 is expected to fall on either Friday, 20 March 2026, or Saturday, 21 March 2026, depending on the official moon sighting announcement.
The Central Ruet e Hilal Committee meets on the 29th of Ramadan to confirm the moon sighting. Their decision is broadcast on national television and followed across the country.
Expected Chand Raat 2026 Details
Detail
Information
Expected Chand Raat
20 or 21 March 2026
Expected Eid ul Fitr
21 or 22 March 2026
Official confirmation
Central Ruet e Hilal Committee
Market hours
Many markets stay open until 2 AM to 4 AM
Once the moon is officially announced, celebrations begin immediately. Families head to bazaars, shopping streets, and malls for the final round of Eid shopping.
Best Chand Raat Market in Lahore 2026
Lahore has options for every kind of shopper a historic 200-year-old bazaar, a polished ticketed lifestyle event, and everything in between.
Mashion Bazaar: Chaand Raat Top Pick for 2026
This is the headline event for Chand Raat in Lahore this year.
The event features 150+ vendors covering local fashion, beauty, and home décor brands, alongside mehndi, workshops, food stalls, beauty activations, kids’ arts & crafts, an adult gaming zone, and an interactive photo booth.
It is backed by Mashion, the digital lifestyle platform founded by Mahira Khan with over 649,000 Instagram followers.It sells out early. Book as soon as possible.
Anarkali Bazaar The Soul of Lahore
For the classic, unfiltered Chand Raat experience, nothing beats Anarkali.
Anarkali is one of the oldest surviving markets in the Indian Subcontinent, dating back at least 200 years. It is split into Old Anarkali, famous for food, and New Anarkali, known for traditional handicrafts and embroidery.
Bano Bazaar within New Anarkali is especially popular among women for clothes, bangles, henna, shoes, and accessories.
What to buy at Anarkali on Chand Raat:
Bangles and chooriyan
Mehndi (street artists line every corner)
Embroidered and printed suits
Traditional footwear (khussa)
Street food: Dahi bhalle, chaat, gol gappay
Getting there: Metro Bus stops near Mall Road. Rickshaw from any central Lahore point.
Liberty Market Brands + Festive Buzz
Located next to Main Boulevard in Gulberg, Liberty Market offers silk, lace, footwear, ready apparel, and more. It is also known for its restaurants, kiosks, and food outlets.On Chand Raat, string lights go up, and stalls spill onto footpaths.
Location: Liberty Roundabout, Main Boulevard, Gulberg III
Gulberg MM Alam Road For a Relaxed Late-Night Shop
Gulberg is the calmer, more walkable option for Chand Raat in Lahore.
Boutiques, jewellery stores, and cafes all join the Chand Raat spirit
Less dense than Anarkali, better for families with young children
Restaurants stay open late, ideal for a post-shopping meal
Lahore Chand Raat Market at a Glance
Market
Best For
Vibe
Entry
Mashion Bazaar
Brands, events, mehndi
Curated, ticketed
Rs. 750–1,400
Anarkali Bano Bazaar
Bangles, suits, street food
Traditional, crowded
Free
Liberty Market
Premium brands, footwear
Festive, commercial
Free
Gulberg MM Alam
Boutiques, dining
Relaxed, upscale
Free
Top Chand Raat Bazaar in Karachi
Shopping areas from Saddar to Hyderi and Clifton to Tariq Road and Bahadurabad come alive as families rush out for shoes, matching dupattas, bangles, and last-minute essentials.
The event brings together shopping, food, décor, music, and a festive crowd under one roof. It features local brands, clothing stalls, jewellery, accessories, and curated photo-friendly setups. Families prefer it for the security and parking arrangements. Younger crowds are drawn to the aesthetic and social atmosphere.
Tariq Road The Chand Raat Market of Karachi
Tariq Road is the heart of Chand Raat energy in Karachi. If you want the full experience, this is where you go.
Footpath stalls stretch the entire length of the road
Bangle sellers, mehndi artists, and clothing plazas all at once
Active from Iftar until well past 2 AM
Traffic Note: Karachi Traffic Police typically announce restrictions on rickshaws and taxis on Tariq Road from Allah Wali to Ittehad Signal in Bahadurabad ahead of Chand Raat.Use cab-hailing services and plan your drop-off point in advance.
Saddar & Zainab Market Central and Budget-Friendly
Saddar’s main streets include Abdullah Haroon Road, Zaibunnisa Street, Zainab Market, and Bohri Bazaar.
Best buys here:
Artificial jewellery and accessories
Affordable ready-to-wear
Cosmetics and beauty items
Bangles at wholesale prices
Hyderi Market & Bahadurabad Family-Friendly Pick
Hyderi and Bahadurabad offer a slightly more manageable but equally festive Chand Raat market vibe ideal for families who want shopping, bangles, and food all within walking distance.
Zamzama, DHA The Upscale Alternative
Zamzama is known for upscale boutiques and a calmer environment a good choice if you prefer curated shopping and branded stores alongside the Chand Raat market.
Karachi Chand Raat Market at a Glance
Market / Event
Best For
Crowd Level
Entry
Chaand Taaray, DHA
Brands, food, ambiance
Moderate (organised)
Ticketed
Tariq Road
Everything full experience
Very high
Free
Saddar & Zainab Market
Budget, accessories
High
Free
Hyderi & Bahadurabad
Families, mixed shopping
Moderate
Free
Zamzama, DHA
Boutiques, upscale
Low–moderate
Free
Chand Raat Shopping in Islamabad
Islamabad’s Chand Raat market scene has grown fast. The capital now has curated events, mall melas, and lively traditional markets all worth visiting.
The Commons: Chaandni Raatein Top Pick for 2026
Islamabad’s premier curated Chand Raat event for 2026.
Book early, these events sell out quickly in the capital.
Centaurus & Safa Gold Mall Mall Mela Experience
Centaurus Mall is one of the most accessible options for Chand Raat, with mehndi and bangle stalls set up both inside and outside. Safa Gold Mall hosts a Chand Raat Mela on its ground floor with vibrant stalls, live performances, and a variety of shopping and mehndi options.
Islamabad’s malls dazzle with yellow décor lights and traditional mehndi setups on Chand Raat night.
What to expect at Mall Melas:
Bangle and jewellery stalls
Mehndi artists (book a slot early)
Local clothing and accessories brands
Food court stays open late
Safe, air-conditioned, family-friendly
Jinnah Super & Super Market, F-7 Traditional Market Spirit
Mehndi artists at Super Market and Jinnah Super have made Chand Raat a tradition, with shoppers returning year after year for the festive atmosphere.
Well-connected, accessible, and open late. Good for mehndi, bangles, and last-minute clothing runs.
F-10 Markaz The Local Favourite
F-10 Markaz is one of Islamabad’s go-to areas for Chand Raat shopping. Traditional bazaar stalls spill outside the shops and the market stays lively well past midnight. Feels more like an old-school bazaar than a mall a good balance of the two worlds.
G-11 Women’s Sahulat Bazaar Hidden Gem
Islamabad’s Ramadan Sahulat Bazaar in Sector G-11 features 48 stalls specifically allocated to women vendors, operating during Chand Raat. It offers festive Eid items, bangles, mehndi, garments, alongside daily essentials at officially notified, subsidised rates.
Islamabad Chand Raat Markets at a Glance
Chand Raat Market
Best For
Vibe
Entry
The Commons: Chaandni Raatein
Curated event, brands
Festive, organised
Ticketed
Centaurus Mall
Convenience, mehndi
Family-friendly
Free
Safa Gold Mall
Mela, performances
Lively
Free
F-10 Markaz
Traditional bazaar feel
Local, buzzing
Free
Jinnah Super / Super Market F-7
Mehndi, bangles
Classic
Free
G-11 Women’s Sahulat Bazaar
Budget Eid shopping
Calm, organised
Free
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Chand Raat 2026 in Pakistan?
The central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will officially announce the dates of Eid-ul-Fitr in Pakistan 2026 and Chand Raat as well.
What is the best Chand Raat market in Lahore 2026?
For a curated event:Mashion Bazaar at Lahore Polo Club (14–15 March, Rs. 750/day). For the traditional experience: Anarkali’s Bano Bazaar.
Where is the best Chand Raat bazaar in Karachi?
Tariq Road for the full street bazaar experience.Locate Bazaar: Chaand Taaray at Andalusian Banquets DHA for a curated, family-safe event.
What time do Chand Raat market close?
Most traditional bazaars stay open until 2–4 AM. Mashion Bazaar closes at 12 AM. Chaand Taaray runs until 2 AM. Mall melas in Islamabad typically close by 1–2 AM.
Is there a Chand Raat market in Islamabad in 2026?
Yes.The Commons: Chaandni Raatein is the main ticketed event. Safa Gold Mall and Centaurus also host free entry Chand Raat market.
Is Chand Raat market safe for families?
Yes, all three cities are generally family-safe on Chand Raat. Mashion Bazaar and Chaand Taaray are explicitly family-only events.
ISLAMABAD: As Pakistan joyfully enters the final days of Ramazan, vibrant and bustling markets across the country are painting an encouraging picture of economic resilience and renewed consumer confidence.
From the lively streets of Karachi to the colourful bazaars of Gilgit-Baltistan, late-night shoppers are flooding markets with remarkable enthusiasm, signalling a heartening revival in grassroots economic activity.
The festive shopping surge spanning traditional clothing, Kashmiri bangles, handcrafted footwear, and sparkling jewellery is delivering a powerful and welcome boost to Pakistan’s vast informal retail sector.
Hardworking vendors, skilled artisans, and dedicated small business owners are reaping the rewards of months of careful preparation, with sales climbing impressively after each evening’s iftar. This seasonal wave of spending is injecting vital and much-needed liquidity into millions of small and medium enterprises that proudly form the beating heart of Pakistan’s economy.
Economists and market observers view the extraordinary consumer turnout as a deeply encouraging indicator of household resilience. Despite navigating challenging economic conditions over the past few years, Pakistani families are demonstrating admirable determination to celebrate their traditions, sustain their communities, and support local businesses.
The strong footfall across both traditional bazaars and modern shopping malls reflects a pleasing and growing confidence among urban consumers, a confidence that bodes exceptionally well for economic momentum in the months ahead.
Particularly uplifting is the surging popularity of domestically crafted goods. The overwhelming demand for Kashmiri bangles, Peshawari chappals, and handwoven khussas is celebrating and empowering local artisans, strengthening cottage industries, and championing the rich cultural heritage of Pakistani craftsmanship.
The glowing, laughter-filled bazaars of Ramazan’s final nights beautifully capture the spirit of a nation that remains energetic, hopeful, and forward-looking. They stand as a shining testament to Pakistan’s enduring economic vitality and the unbreakable spirit of its people.
ISLAMABAD: The State Bank of Pakistan has issued a comprehensive advisory ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr 2026, urging citizens to use official banking channels to obtain new currency notes and to refrain from purchasing them from black-market vendors at inflated prices.
The central bank confirmed that arrangements for the distribution of freshly printed currency notes were finalised ahead of the festive season, with Eid expected around March 20. Citizens are encouraged to submit their requests well in advance to avoid last-minute difficulties.
The SBP has outlined several official methods for the public to obtain new notes. The primary channel is the bank’s dedicated SMS service on the short code 8877, which is activated during the second week of Ramadan. Citizens are required to send their CNIC number and preferred bank branch code to 8877, after which the system generates a unique transaction code along with the address of the designated branch.
Upon visiting the specified branch, citizens must present their original CNIC and a photocopy for verification. The SBP has explicitly stated that no additional charges or service fees are applicable during this process. In addition to branch services, many commercial banks load newer denomination notes, particularly Rs500 and Rs1,000 bills, into ATMs during the final ten days of Ramadan. SBP Banking Services Corporation offices in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, also distribute new notes on a first-come, first-served basis.
Despite the availability of official channels, a segment of the public continues to turn to open-market vendors for convenience or due to limited bank quotas. Authorities have flagged that traders are selling new notes at significantly inflated premiums and have called upon citizens to report such illegal activity to the relevant authorities.
The SBP has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring smooth and equitable access to new currency notes for all citizens during the Eid festivities.
If you’re looking to buy property in Pakistan, one of the first questions that comes up is: is a condo better than a home? The answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, family size, and long-term goals. With apartment-style living becoming more popular in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, this debate is more relevant than ever. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the condo vs home decision so you can choose what’s right for you.
What Is a Condo in the Pakistani Context?
A lot of people search “Is a Condo Better Than a Home” in Pakistan. In the local context, a “condo” is best understood as a residential apartment unit inside a managed building or gated complex.
You own your individual unit. But common areas, lobby, gym, parking, and rooftop are shared with other residents and managed by the building administration. A monthly maintenance fee is charged to cover these shared services.
A house, on the other hand, is a standalone property. You own the structure and the plot of land it sits on, full stop.
Is a Condo Better Than a Home? Key Differences
Factor
Condo
House
Upfront Cost
Lower
Higher
Maintenance
Managed by building
Owner’s responsibility
Security
Built-in (CCTV, guards)
Varies by location
Space
Limited
More spacious
Privacy
Shared walls/floors
Full privacy
Customization
Restricted
Fully flexible
Amenities
Often included
You build your own
Land Appreciation
No land ownership
Strong long-term gain
Rental Income
Good yield in urban areas
Moderate yield
Condo vs Home: Detailed Breakdown
To answer your query, “Is a Condo Better Than a Home?” you need to understand the following differences in detail.
1. Cost and Affordability – Is a Condo Better Than a Home
Property prices in major Pakistani cities have risen sharply. Buying a plot and constructing a house or purchasing a ready-built home in a prime area now requires significant capital.
A well-located 3-bedroom apartment in Lahore or Karachi can cost considerably less than a comparable house on a plot.
Condos are a more realistic entry point for:
First-time buyers
Young professionals
Buyers with limited upfront capital
That said, houses in high-demand areas tend to appreciate more aggressively over time. If capital gain is your top priority, land ownership gives you an edge.
2. Maintenance and Upkeep – Is a Condo Better Than a Home
This is one of the clearest differences in the condo vs home comparison.
Owning a house means you handle everything:
Roof repairs and waterproofing
Exterior painting and plastering
Water tank and pump maintenance
Generator servicing
Garden and boundary wall upkeep
In a managed condo, most exterior and structural maintenance is the building’s responsibility. You pay a monthly fee and in return, you’re free from those recurring hassles.
For working professionals, overseas Pakistanis, or frequent travellers, this is a significant advantage.
3. Security
Security is a top concern for Pakistani buyers across all income levels.
Condos typically offer:
24/7 security guards
CCTV surveillance across common areas
Controlled entry and exit points
Intercom or app-based visitor management
Gated housing communities offer strong security for houses too. But standalone homes in general residential areas often lack this infrastructure.
For singles, couples, or families without extended household members, the built-in security of a managed apartment complex is a major draw.
4. Amenities
Modern condo projects in Pakistan increasingly include lifestyle amenities that would cost a fortune to replicate in a private house at the same budget.
Common amenities in managed apartment complexes:
Gym and fitness centre
Swimming pool
Community or function hall
Dedicated covered parking
Rooftop or landscaped outdoor spaces
Backup power and water systems
At the same price point, condo living in a managed complex often delivers a noticeably higher daily standard of living.
5. Space and Privacy
This is where houses win no contest.
A house gives you more indoor space, your own outdoor area, and no shared walls. There’s room for children to play, space to host large family gatherings, and the ability to grow.
Condos fall short when it comes to:
Private outdoor or garden space
Sound insulation from neighbours
Hosting large joint family events
Accommodating multigenerational households
6. Customization and Renovation
A house gives you full freedom. Want to add a floor? Expand the kitchen? Build a guest room or servant quarters? You can do it within local building bylaws. Condos, however, come with restrictions.
What you generally cannot do in a condo:
Modify or break common/shared walls
Change the building’s exterior or facade
Make structural alterations to the unit
Add additional rooms or extend the floor area
If you like personalizing your space or plan to expand as your family grows a house gives you options a condo simply cannot.
7. Investment and Resale Value
Both property types can be solid investments in Pakistan, but they work differently.
Houses:
Land appreciates strongly, especially in growing areas
Plot value often rises independent of construction value
You can redevelop, rebuild, or sell the land separately
Better long-term capital gains overall
Condos:
Easier to rent out in urban locations
Growing rental demand from professionals and expats
Lower entry cost means better return relative to investment
Good yield potential in centrally located buildings
If rental income is your goal, a well-located condo often delivers stronger yields. If long-term capital appreciation is the priority, land ownership wins.
Is a Condo Better Than a Home? | Who Should Buy a Condo?
A condo makes more sense if you:
Are you a first-time buyer working with a tighter budget
Live alone or as a couple without young children
Travel frequently or have a demanding lifestyle
Want low-maintenance, hassle-free living
Are you looking to earn rental income from a centrally located property
Value security and modern amenities over space
Is a Condo Better Than a Home and Who Should Buy a House?
A house is likely the better fit if you:
Have a large joint family with multiple generations living together
Need private outdoor space or room for children
Plan to renovate, expand, or customize your home over time
Want maximum control over your property
Are you focused on long-term land appreciation as your investment strategy
Quick Verdict: Is a Condo Better Than a Home
If you are still confused about “Is a Condo Better Than a Home” here is a quick table for your understanding.
Choose This
If You Prioritize
Condo
Affordability, convenience, security, and low maintenance
House
Space, privacy, customization, and long-term land value
Neither option is universally better. The right answer to the question “Is a Condo Better Than a Home” depends entirely on your life stage, family situation, and financial goals.
Is a Condo Better Than a Home? Explore Citadel One3
If you’ve decided that condo living is the right fit, Citadel One3 by Chakor Ventures is one of Islamabad’s most compelling options.
Rising 40+ floors along Jinnah Avenue in the Blue Area, Citadel One3 is an upcoming luxury condominium complex. It offers stunning views of the Faisal Mosque, F-9 Park, and the Margalla Hills. The development spans 27,500 sq ft and comes with a full set of amenities:
Gym and wellness spaces
Culinary court
Sports and kids’ play area
Smart parking for 350+ cars
24/7 CCTV surveillance and secure entry points
Rental stay management for investors
Developed by Chakor Ventures, a trusted name in Islamabad’s real estate, Citadel One3 is designed for buyers who want refined urban living without compromise.
Final Thoughts: Is a Condo Better Than a Home in Pakistan?
Pakistan’s real estate market now offers strong options in both categories. The key is to be honest about what your lifestyle actually needs, not just what looks good on paper. In this blog, we tried to answer your query “Is a Condo Better Than a Home”, hopefully you have a better understanding now. Before buying anything, always verify the developer’s credentials, confirm NOC status, and consult a qualified legal advisor.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan witnessed an unprecedented surge in petroleum prices after the federal government announced a massive Rs55-per-litre increase in both petrol and diesel.
The price of petrol has risen from Rs266.17 per litre to Rs321.17 per litre, while diesel now costs Rs335.86 per litre, up from Rs280.86 per litre. Officials say the decision was driven primarily by a sharp rise in global oil prices amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
International oil markets have reacted strongly to regional instability, with crude prices nearing $100 per barrel. As an oil-import dependent country, Pakistan remains highly vulnerable to fluctuations in global energy markets. A significant portion of the country’s oil imports passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime route that has been affected by the conflict.
The government has also revised the petroleum development levy (PDL) as part of the price adjustment. The levy on petrol has been increased by Rs20, bringing it to around Rs105 per litre, while the levy on diesel has been reduced by Rs20. Authorities argue that the adjustments were necessary to manage fiscal pressures and maintain revenue targets.
The announcement triggered widespread concern among citizens. Long queues were reported at petrol pumps in several cities as motorists rushed to purchase fuel before the new prices. The government is also reviewing potential fuel conservation measures, including remote work arrangements and online classes, though no immediate implementation has been announced.
Analysts warn that the sharp increase in fuel prices could further intensify inflationary pressures, affecting transportation costs, food prices, and overall economic stability in the coming weeks.
ISLAMABAD: A Chinese aerospace investment group is considering a major investment between $5 billion and $10 billion in Pakistan, signaling growing international interest in the country’s industrial and technology sectors. The proposal was discussed during a meeting between the Federal Minister for Investment and the Chairman of the Board of Investment (BOI), Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, and a delegation from China’s Aerospace Development Industry Investment Group Co.
The delegation was led by the company’s chairman, Lu Jinhai, who expressed the group’s interest in exploring large-scale investment opportunities across several key sectors of Pakistan’s economy. According to officials, the potential investment could cover areas such as mining and mineral development, advanced technology industries, and broader industrial expansion.
Government representatives highlighted Pakistan’s strategic advantages as an investment destination, emphasizing its geographic position connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Officials also noted the country’s large domestic market of more than 240 million people and a young, growing workforce capable of supporting technology-driven industries.
During the meeting, both sides also discussed opportunities for collaboration in emerging sectors, including artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, drone technology, and renewable energy projects. Such investments, if finalized, could significantly contribute to Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its industrial base and strengthen its technological capabilities.
These programs would aim to train local workers and engineers in advanced technologies, helping build a more skilled workforce to support future industrial growth. The potential investment is also seen as aligning with broader regional economic initiatives, particularly those connected to China’s Belt and Road framework, which aims to expand infrastructure, trade, and connectivity across Asia and beyond.
Officials stated that discussions are still in early stages, but if realized, the proposed investment could mark one of the largest foreign commitments to Pakistan’s industrial and technology sectors in recent years, strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is considering a series of emergency measures to manage petroleum supplies and pricing amid rising global uncertainty in oil transportation following disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.
According to officials, the government is evaluating the possibility of shifting from the current fortnightly petroleum price adjustments to a weekly review mechanism. The proposed change aims to enable quicker responses to rapidly fluctuating global oil prices and shipping costs. Authorities are also exploring options to compensate oil marketing companies for the sharp increases in shipping insurance and freight charges resulting from heightened geopolitical tensions in the region.
Government sources indicate that Pakistan currently holds more than 500,000 tonnes of petrol and diesel in stock, which is sufficient to meet national demand for approximately 25 to 26 days. Officials maintain that there is no immediate threat of a fuel shortage. However, precautionary measures are being implemented to safeguard supply chains and prevent potential market disruptions.
To secure continued energy imports, Pakistan has approached Saudi Arabia to facilitate oil shipments through alternative Red Sea routes, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. In addition, Pakistan State Oil has reportedly issued import tenders for shipments that would avoid the affected maritime corridor.
The situation has also significantly increased the cost of importing fuel. Insurance premiums for oil shipments have reportedly surged from about $30,000 to nearly $400,000 per vessel, while freight costs have risen to over $4 million per shipment, up from roughly $900,000 previously.
Officials warn that if the rising import costs are not managed through policy adjustments, the price gap could reach around Rs45–50 per litre for diesel and Rs25–26 per litre for petrol.
A cabinet committee led by the finance minister is closely monitoring developments and reviewing options to ensure stable fuel availability while minimizing the economic impact on consumers and the broader economy.
KARACHI: Trading at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) was suspended for one hour on Monday after the benchmark KSE-100 index recorded a sharp decline of more than 15,000 points during intra-day trading.
According to market figures, the KSE-100 index dropped by 15,071.01 points, bringing it down to 152,991.15 points from the previous closing level of 168,062.16 points. The decrease represents a decline of 8.97 percent. Trading was halted temporarily in accordance with market regulations to manage volatility and prevent further losses.
The market downturn occurred amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which affected global financial markets.
In international energy markets, Brent crude oil prices rose approximately 10 percent in over-the-counter trading on Sunday, reaching around $80 per barrel. Prior to this increase, Brent had closed at $73 per barrel on Friday, marking its highest level since July. Analysts indicated that continued developments in the Middle East could influence further price movements in global oil markets.
KARACHI: Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) rose modestly by $16 million during the week ended February 20, 2026, reaching $16.21 billion, according to official data released on Thursday. The marginal increase reflects continued stability in the country’s external account position amid ongoing economic management efforts.
With the latest rise, Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves stood at approximately $21.41 billion. Of this amount, around $5.2 billion is held by commercial banks, while the remaining balance is maintained by the central bank. The weekly uptick, though small in magnitude, indicates a steady reserve position supported by controlled external payments and stable inflows.
Foreign exchange reserves play a critical role in maintaining macroeconomic stability. They provide a cushion against external shocks, support the national currency, and enable the country to meet its import and external debt obligations. Analysts note that maintaining reserves above the $16 billion mark at the central bank level offers investors and international stakeholders monitoring Pakistan’s financial health a degree of confidence.
The recent trend of incremental increases suggests that the central bank’s reserve management strategy is yielding gradual improvements. While the $16 million rise does not represent a significant surge, it signals stability at a time when global economic conditions remain uncertain and emerging markets continue to face external pressures.
Economic observers emphasize that sustained growth in reserves over the coming weeks will be essential to strengthen market sentiment and reinforce exchange rate stability. Continued inflows from exports, remittances, and multilateral financing arrangements are expected to further bolster the country’s foreign exchange position.
The SBP releases foreign reserve data weekly to provide transparency and keep markets informed about developments in the external sector.
