Pakistan imports 1.1 million tonnes diesel in 9MFY26 as March shipments fall to 104,689 tonnes

Pakistan imported around 1.1 million tonnes of high-speed diesel during the first nine months of FY2025-26, with March shipments declining amid supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Imports in March stood at 104,689 tonnes, lower than typical volumes, as supply constraints coincided with seasonal demand from the agriculture sector.

Diesel consumption generally increases during the harvesting period, with farmers and transporters relying on fuel for operations, adding pressure on already constrained supplies.

The reduced inflows contributed to a spike in domestic prices, with diesel reaching around Rs520 per litre at the start of April, affecting sectors including transport, agriculture and logistics.

The government later implemented two price reductions, bringing the rate down to Rs353 per litre.

The disruption affected fuel flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a key corridor for global oil shipments, limiting supplies from Gulf countries that account for most of Pakistan’s diesel imports.

Stakeholders said the disruption has renewed calls to diversify energy sources and develop strategic reserves to manage future supply risks.