RAWALPINDI: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Monday warned that the government would strictly monitor oil marketing companies to prevent undue inventory gains following the recent sharp increase in petroleum prices. He said authorities would enforce a mandatory minimum inventory requirement to ensure transparency and protect consumers from profiteering.

The finance minister made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by its president Usman Shaukat and group leader Sohail Altaf. Aurangzeb said the recent petroleum price adjustment was unavoidable to prevent depletion of national fuel reserves and maintain uninterrupted supply across the country.

He explained that oil marketing companies would be required to maintain at least a twenty day stock of petroleum products. This requirement would discourage speculative gains on existing inventory because companies could also face losses if international prices move downward after accumulating stock.

Members of the business community voiced serious concerns about the impact of the recent Rs55 per litre increase in petrol and diesel prices. RCCI representatives warned that the sharp rise in fuel costs could trigger another wave of inflation and increase operational expenses for industries already struggling with high energy prices.

The chamber also highlighted broader business concerns including tax enforcement issues, rising cost of doing business and declining investor confidence. The delegation urged the government to introduce reforms that encourage domestic investment and revive the construction sector, which they described as a key driver of employment and economic activity.

Aurangzeb assured the delegation that their proposals would be reviewed and incorporated into upcoming economic and trade policies where possible. He said the government remained committed to stabilising the economy, improving the investment climate and addressing the concerns of the business community while ensuring fair fuel pricing and uninterrupted energy supply.