The central government has revised the duty structure related to petroleum products, increasing the export duty on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF). According to the official notification, the export duty on diesel is now set at ₹14 per liter, while ATF will attract a duty of ₹12.5 per liter. However, there are no changes to the export duty on petrol or the existing excise duty on petrol and diesel in the domestic market.
The revised rates have been effective since Tuesday, as stated in the notification released by the Revenue Department. The government regularly reviews these duties considering the conditions of the international energy market. The recent adjustments were made in response to shifts in crude oil and petroleum product prices globally.
The special additional excise duty and other related cesses on petroleum products are reviewed every 15 days. Prior to the current revision, changes were implemented starting June 1. Officials note that the duty determination involves assessing the average international prices of crude oil, diesel, petrol, and ATF to maintain a balance between domestic and export markets.
The Petroleum Ministry has assured that there is an ample supply of petrol, diesel, LPG, and natural gas in the country, alleviating any concerns about fuel availability for consumers. The ministry also appealed for prudent use of energy resources by both citizens and industries. Meanwhile, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the ministry, highlighted in a recent inter-ministerial press conference that the increased demand at retail petrol pumps in certain areas has led to additional pressure on the distribution system.
To ensure uninterrupted fuel availability for the general public, the government has temporarily imposed a limit on the retail sale of diesel. Effective from June 11, individuals can purchase a maximum of 200 liters of diesel per day from retail pumps. This measure is intended to balance the fuel distribution system and prevent inconvenience to consumers, and is expected to last for approximately 90 days. Despite these measures, the ministry assures that refineries are operating normally and the crude oil supply remains sufficient, eliminating any fears of shortages in fuel supply.