In a recent development, the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association (PPDA) has decided to defer its planned strike until Monday, following productive discussions with the Petroleum Minister, Musadik Malik.
The decision came after the PPDA issued a “Letter of Understanding” on Friday, acknowledging the need for an upward reasonable revision in dealers’ margins. The Association and the minister found common ground on this matter, paving the way for a resolution.
As part of the agreement, the increased margins for dealers will be determined based on actual data that all stakeholders find acceptable. The revised margin figures are set to be announced within the next 48 hours, bringing relief to the dealers.
Initially, the PPDA had declared an indefinite distribution shutdown scheduled to start on Saturday, July 22, at 6 AM. The Association cited mounting losses attributed to the surge in sales of smuggled petrol and diesel from neighboring Iran as the driving force behind the strike.
In an official notice released by the PPDA Chairman, the association had urgently reached out to the Petroleum Minister, raising concerns about this pressing issue and various others affecting their operations. Regrettably, the Association had received no response from the minister at that time.
However, the recent breakthrough in talks has sparked optimism within the PPDA, leading them to suspend the strike temporarily in hopes of finding a suitable resolution to their grievances.
This development will be closely monitored by the petroleum industry and other stakeholders as they await the announcement of the revised margins. The positive outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for both dealers and consumers in the country.