A government committee formed to monitor petrol prices and energy supplies met again to review Pakistan’s fuel situation amid rising regional tensions.
Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the meeting at the Finance Division. The committee was constituted by Shehbaz Sharif to closely track developments affecting petroleum markets and supply chains.
Participants reviewed the evolving regional and global energy environment and assessed national stock levels of crude oil and refined petroleum products. Officials briefed the meeting on available supplies of petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, and LPG, including their days of cover and daily consumption trends.
The committee also examined developments in global oil markets, including benchmark price movements, shipping routes, freight and insurance costs, and the situation in key maritime corridors. Members noted that the international energy environment remains volatile, particularly due to uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and its potential impact on global energy trade.
Officials also reviewed developments in LNG and LPG markets. While LNG imports under long-term agreements remain a key part of Pakistan’s energy supply, disruptions in regional shipping routes could affect global LNG logistics. LPG inflows through cross-border channels are also being monitored to ensure stable domestic availability.
The committee discussed several contingency measures to strengthen supply security, including engagement with international partners and exploring alternative sourcing routes. Officials also briefed members on diplomatic and commercial efforts with friendly countries to secure additional crude oil and petroleum supplies if needed.
Efforts to diversify procurement through regional energy hubs were also discussed, including possible arrangements through ports in the Red Sea and Gulf region to ensure refinery operations continue smoothly.
Energy conservation strategies were reviewed as part of broader contingency planning. The committee emphasized that although fuel supplies remain stable for now, responsible energy consumption would improve national preparedness if global uncertainties persist.
The finance minister reiterated that ensuring uninterrupted availability of petroleum products remains the government’s top priority and said the committee is monitoring developments on a daily basis.
Authorities were also directed to prevent hoarding, diversion, and smuggling of petroleum products during this period of international volatility, with coordination strengthened between federal and provincial governments.
It was decided that chief secretaries from all provinces will join the committee’s next meeting to finalize a national action plan. The government aims to develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard energy security and maintain stability in domestic fuel markets.
