Subtitle: Attaullah Tarar says reforms aim to promote fair competition, improve transparency and protect consumers, while broader economic measures seek to reduce public financial pressure.
The federal government has announced reforms in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector to eliminate monopolistic practices and replace the discretionary quota system with a transparent, merit-based mechanism.
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar announced the measures during a press conference alongside Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik. He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed authorities to establish a competitive and transparent framework to ensure fairness and consumer facilitation.
LPG Sector to Undergo Major Structural Reforms
Tarar described the initiative as a significant development, stating that previous governments had not taken steps to dismantle the control of a few individuals over the LPG market. The new mechanism aims to promote competition and provide equal opportunities to market participants.
He also highlighted the government’s decision to transfer profits generated by oil refineries to the public, calling it an unprecedented move in Pakistan’s history.
Government Announces Fuel Relief Measures
Addressing the global energy crisis, Tarar said the government had initially allocated Rs133 billion in subsidies to prevent increases in petrol and diesel prices and maintain fuel availability.
The administration subsequently introduced the Fuel Relief Scheme, offering targeted financial assistance to deserving and economically disadvantaged citizens.
He said these initiatives demonstrated the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities while maintaining economic stability.
Transparency and Tax Reforms Gain Momentum
The minister said regulatory transparency was being strengthened through structural reforms. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) had started publishing relevant information on its official website, marking a major step towards public access to regulatory details.
He further revealed that reforms in the sugar industry had generated an additional Rs60 billion in tax revenue. The government is encouraging profitable businesses and sectors to fulfil their tax obligations and contribute to national economic development.
Winter Gas Supply and Public Relief
Tarar said the prime minister had directed officials to develop a comprehensive strategy for winter gas supply and accelerate relief measures. He added that the petroleum levy had also been temporarily reduced to ease the financial burden on consumers.
Regarding discussions with Jamaat-e-Islami, he said the government had invited proposals and technical recommendations to explore additional relief options.
Development Projects in Gilgit-Baltistan
The minister highlighted federal initiatives in Gilgit-Baltistan, including a 100-megawatt power project, solar panel distribution and ongoing construction of the Jaglot-Skardu Road.
He said development corridors and Danish Schools were also being established, while billions of rupees had been allocated for regional development.
Tarar added that an investigation into the recent incident in Gilgit-Baltistan was underway and the government remained committed to addressing public concerns. He also said legal authorities had been directed to expedite pending cases to ensure relief measures were not delayed.