Fuel prices are experiencing fluctuations across different regions on January 30, 2026, influenced by a mix of international and domestic factors. Consumers are advised to check the rates in their specific cities for the most accurate information.

Global Market Influences

Global oil prices have been trending upwards, reaching levels not seen since late September 2025. On January 29th, Brent crude rose to $70.71 per barrel, a 3.4% increase, while WTI crude closed at $65.42 per barrel, up by 3.5%. These increases are attributed to several factors, including rising geopolitical tensions, particularly those involving Iran, and a weakening US dollar. Concerns about potential supply disruptions in the Middle East have also contributed to the upward pressure on prices.

Supply-side issues are further impacting the market. A power outage at the Tengiz oil field in Kazakhstan disrupted production, although the field is being restarted in phases. Additionally, harsh winter weather in the United States temporarily disrupted oil and gas production, further tightening the market.

Analysts predict that oil prices may remain elevated in the near term. Experts at Citi believe that geopolitical risks related to Iran have added a "geopolitical premium" of $3-4 per barrel to oil prices. If these risks persist, Brent crude oil prices could potentially reach $72 per barrel within the next three months.

Regional Price Updates

In Chennai, Tamil Nadu, petrol prices remain steady at Rs 100.85 per liter on January 30, 2026. This rate has remained unchanged for the past three months. Prices in other cities and districts of Tamil Nadu vary, with Ariyalur at Rs 101.57 per liter, Coimbatore at Rs 101.53 per liter and Dharmapuri at Rs 102.39 per liter.

In Pakistan, there is anticipation of revised fuel prices effective February 1st. While petrol prices are expected to decrease slightly by 36 paisas per liter, the price of high-speed diesel may increase by Rs 9.47 per liter. Kerosene oil and light diesel oil prices are also expected to rise by Rs 3.69 and Rs 6.95 per liter, respectively. On January 15th, the government kept petrol and high-speed diesel prices unchanged at Rs 253.17 and Rs 257.08 per liter, respectively.

In Vietnam, domestic gasoline and diesel prices were adjusted by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Finance, effective from 3 PM on January 30, 2026. The price of E5RON92 gasoline increased by 56 VND/liter, not exceeding 18,339 VND/liter; RON95-III gasoline increased by 214 VND/liter, not exceeding 18,845 VND/liter. Diesel 0.05S increased by 473 VND/liter, not exceeding 18,173 VND/liter.

Factors Influencing Price Changes

Several factors contribute to these price adjustments. Supply risks, stronger demand, and ongoing geopolitical tensions are major drivers. The temporary halting of production at oil fields in Kazakhstan and export constraints in the Black Sea have also tightened near-term supply, supporting upward pressure on oil prices. Increased demand from China, the United States and Europe, driven by economic expansion and colder weather, further influences these trends.

The consumption of high-speed diesel has a significant impact on inflation, as it is predominantly used in heavy transport vehicles and agricultural machinery, affecting the prices of essential goods such as vegetables and food items.