Freight charges in Pakistan rise by up to 40%

KARACHI: Transporters across Pakistan have sharply increased freight charges following a steep rise in diesel prices, which industry stakeholders say has made operations financially unviable, ARY News reported.

The All Pakistan Goods Transport Owners Association announced a nationwide increase of up to 40 percent in freight rates, citing the Rs184.49 per litre surge in diesel as the primary driver behind the decision.

Freight costs on key routes have already been revised. Transporting goods from Karachi to Lahore, which previously cost Rs10,000 per ton, has now risen to Rs14,000 per ton.

Similarly, shipments from Punjab to Karachi will now incur an additional Rs1,500 per ton, reflecting the rising cost pressures faced by transporters across Pakistan.

Industry representatives say the increase is unavoidable as fuel costs, toll taxes, and overall operational expenses have surged simultaneously. They warn that continued pressure on the sector could further destabilize logistics and supply chains across Pakistan.

The association’s leadership, including Owais Chaudhry, described the current situation as unsustainable and called for an immediate rollback in petroleum prices to prevent further escalation in transport and freight costs across Pakistan.

The development is expected to ripple through markets nationwide, increasing the cost of goods and adding pressure on consumers, as higher freight charges gradually filter into retail prices across Pakistan.

Also Read: Public transport fares increased following sharp hike in petroleum prices

Earlier, Public transporters raised fares following a massive increase in petrol and diesel prices, a move that is likely to trigger a fresh wave of inflation across the country.

With the surge in petroleum prices, transport operators in Rawalpindi have significantly increased fares.

Taxi, rickshaw, and online bike-hailing services have raised their fares by up to 35%. Similarly, intercity bus fares in other cities have also been increased by 25 to 30 percent without official approval.

Transporters stated that the recent increase in petroleum prices is unjustified and that they are unable to reduce fares under the current circumstances.

According to officials, the price of petrol has been increased by Rs138 per litre, bringing the new rate to Rs458.40 per litre. Meanwhile, diesel prices have risen by Rs184 per litre, reaching Rs520.35 per litre.