In the forthcoming fortnightly review, the prices of petroleum products are anticipated to maintain stability, with minor adjustments expected in diesel and kerosene rates, as per industry calculations. Recent calculations indicate that there will be no significant fluctuation in the ex-refinery and ex-depot prices of petroleum products, attributed to a slight ease in global crude prices.
As reported by The News, the ex-depot price of petrol, the predominant fuel in the country, is marginally higher by Rs0.19 per litre, reaching Rs281.53 per litre compared to the current price of Rs281.34. Conversely, the ex-depot price of high-speed diesel (HSD), primarily used for transport, is estimated to decrease by Rs6.24 per litre, setting it at Rs290.47 per litre for the upcoming fortnight, down from the existing price of Rs296.71.
Furthermore, the ex-depot price of kerosene, commonly used for cooking and lighting in rural areas, is expected to witness a reduction of Rs2.82 per litre, with the estimated price for the next review at Rs202.16 per litre compared to the current Rs204.98. The ex-depot price of light-speed diesel, another diesel variant, is projected to decrease by Rs4.27 per litre, reaching Rs176.18 per litre, down from the current price of Rs180.45.
According to industry calculations, the estimated exchange adjustment for petrol is zero, while it is Rs1.80 per litre for HSD. However, industry officials cautioned that the prices of petroleum products may be influenced by exchange losses, as the industry’s working for the next review did not incorporate the exchange loss figure.
The country reviews fuel prices on a bi-weekly basis, considering fluctuating international energy market costs and the rupee-dollar exchange rate to manage the impact on domestic consumers. Despite global oil prices experiencing pressure in November, falling below $75 a barrel, stability is expected in the upcoming review period, reflecting the resilience of the domestic fuel market amidst external fluctuations.
