Pakistan secures fuel shipments for March and April as Government moves to stabilise supply

Pakistan’s petroleum supply chain remains stable despite ongoing turmoil in global energy markets, with authorities confirming that fuel inventories are at comfortable levels and import arrangements are firmly in place to sustain nationwide availability.

During a high-level review meeting chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the government’s Committee to Monitor Petrol Prices assessed the country’s fuel supply outlook and logistical readiness amid continuing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Officials reported that refineries are operating at normal production capacity, while distribution networks from import terminals to storage facilities and retail outlets are functioning smoothly.

Participants were briefed that petrol cargoes for March and April have largely been secured, with additional shipments scheduled to further strengthen supply buffers. The update reflects ongoing efforts to maintain operational readiness across the energy value chain, including crude procurement, refining, storage and distribution.

The committee also reviewed international energy market conditions and shipping dynamics following disruptions linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a development that significantly affected global oil supply routes. Authorities noted that diversified sourcing strategies and government-to-government engagements with key partner countries are being pursued to enhance supply resilience and maintain flexibility in procurement and financing arrangements.

Earlier this month, the government implemented a sharp increase in petrol and diesel prices, raising rates by Rs55 per litre, or roughly 20%, after the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran pushed crude oil prices to their highest level in two years and disrupted global supply chains.

In response to the volatility, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif established the monitoring committee to track fuel prices, oversee stock levels and coordinate policy responses to potential supply shocks. The body is tasked with ensuring that domestic markets remain stable despite external pressures.

Officials told the meeting that ongoing production and secured import contracts have supported adequate stock availability of both crude oil and refined petroleum products. Efforts are also underway to maintain optimal refinery throughput to ensure efficient processing of incoming cargoes and minimise operational risks.

Addressing the session, Aurangzeb emphasised that proactive planning and coordinated action among stakeholders have enabled Pakistan to maintain a steady fuel supply position even as global markets remain volatile. He directed relevant authorities to continue closely monitoring international developments, inventory levels and supply chain movements to enable timely policy responses.

The government reiterated that uninterrupted access to petroleum products remains a top national priority, with sustained coordination and prudent planning expected to guide future decisions aimed at safeguarding energy security and maintaining market stability.