Commercial LPG cylinder prices surge by Rs 993 amid global energy crisis, while domestic cooking gas rates remain unchanged for millions. Government maintains fuel stability and adjusts export duties to ensure supply during ongoing West Asia geopolitical tensions.
A sharp increase in commercial fuel costs has once again raised concerns among businesses and service providers, even as household consumers remain shielded from immediate price pressures.
The price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder has been increased by Rs 993 with effect from Friday, pushing the retail rate in Delhi to Rs 3,071.5. The revision primarily impacts restaurants, hotels, catering services, and small enterprises that rely heavily on commercial gas for daily operations.
According to Indian Oil Corporation, there has been no change in the price of domestic LPG cylinders. This comes as relief for approximately 33 crore household consumers across the country, who continue to receive cooking gas at unchanged rates despite rising global energy costs.
This marks the third consecutive hike in commercial LPG prices since late February, coinciding with escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly the ongoing conflict involving Israel, Iran, and the United States. The first increase came in early March with a rise of around Rs 115, followed by another hike of nearly Rs 200 on April 1.
Despite these increases, petrol and diesel prices have remained stable. The oil marketing companies have opted not to revise retail fuel rates for consumers, even as international crude oil prices remain elevated. The move is seen as an attempt to cushion the general public from inflationary pressures.
Similarly, aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices for domestic airlines have not been revised. Oil companies have reportedly absorbed the increased global costs to prevent a spike in airfares, thereby protecting both carriers and passengers from additional financial burden.
In a parallel development, the government has implemented export-related duties to manage domestic fuel availability. These levies, including Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) and Road and Infrastructure Cess (RIC), were introduced on March 27, 2026, amid concerns over supply disruptions due to the West Asia crisis.
The Finance Ministry has confirmed that export duty on diesel has been set at Rs 23 per litre, while aviation turbine fuel exports will attract a duty of Rs 33 per litre. Export duty on petrol continues to remain nil. These rates are reviewed on a fortnightly basis, based on fluctuations in global crude oil and fuel prices.
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Importantly, there has been no change in excise duties on petrol and diesel meant for domestic consumption, reinforcing the government’s stance of maintaining price stability for everyday consumers.
While households remain insulated for now, the continued rise in commercial LPG prices could indirectly affect consumers through increased costs of dining, logistics, and services in the coming weeks.
