Pakistan Rolls Out Digital Wallet-Based Fuel Subsidy for Transporters Nationwide

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan has begun rolling out fuel subsidies for transporters through digital wallets, marking a shift toward technology-driven distribution of financial relief amid rising petroleum prices.

Officials said the government has initiated subsidies for goods transporters at a national level, with payments now being processed through digital wallet systems developed in coordination with National Information Technology Board (NITB) and commercial banks.

The Ministry of IT confirmed that data from excise and taxation departments across the country has been collected and shared with the State Bank of Pakistan to facilitate secure and transparent disbursements. Payments through digital wallets have already commenced, the ministry added.

Under the initiative, all provinces will extend subsidies to motorcycle users, while the federal government will directly support riders and rickshaw drivers in the capital. Additionally, subsidies for two- and three-wheeler vehicles in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan will also be covered by the federal government.

Authorities said the move aims to ensure targeted relief through verified digital channels, reducing leakages and improving efficiency in subsidy distribution as fuel costs continue to rise.

The rollout signals a broader push toward digitization in public service delivery, with officials emphasizing transparency and nationwide coverage as key priorities.