Pakistan’s fuel stocks remain stable, diesel cover at 23–24 days, Cabinet panel told

The Cabinet Committee to Monitor Petrol Prices was informed that Pakistan’s fuel supply position remains stable, with diesel stocks covering 23–24 days and petrol availability described as comfortable, while crude oil stocks stand at around 11 days with additional cargoes expected to sustain supply through April.

The assessment was shared during a meeting chaired by the finance minister as part of ongoing daily reviews of petroleum stocks and developments in the energy sector. The committee reviewed supply arrangements, import plans, and refinery operations amid evolving geopolitical conditions.

Officials briefed the meeting that import plans for April are being actively managed, with significant volumes already secured through commercial agreements and government-to-government arrangements. Refineries are operating at optimal levels to ensure conversion of crude into refined products and meet domestic demand.

The committee noted that international oil markets remain volatile, with rising benchmark prices and higher cargo premiums due to supply-side uncertainties linked to regional developments. Members reviewed procurement strategies and stressed the need for cost-effective supply arrangements under existing contracts while maintaining caution in spot market purchases.

Operational aspects, including shipping, insurance, and logistics, were also discussed, with proposals to utilise national shipping capacity to be guided by commercial considerations and transparency. The meeting also reviewed domestic demand trends and noted an increase in fuel offtake in recent weeks.

Participants emphasised strict monitoring to prevent speculative stockholding and ensure smooth distribution across the country. Provincial administrations and regulators have been directed to strengthen enforcement and oversight across the supply chain.

The committee reviewed progress on improving monitoring mechanisms, including plans for a digital dashboard to enhance real-time visibility of fuel stocks, particularly at the retail level. Authorities were instructed to ensure timely data integration for decision-making.

A proposal on fuel specification and pricing optimisation aimed at improving consumption efficiency and supporting local refining capacity was also discussed, with further consultations to be held with stakeholders.

The committee noted the need to develop a framework for strategic petroleum reserves, in line with directions from the prime minister, and tasked the Petroleum Division with preparing a structured proposal.

Officials reiterated that ensuring uninterrupted availability of petroleum products remains a priority, with measures focused on maintaining supply stability while managing the impact of global price movements on domestic consumers.