Pakistan’s oil industry has warned the government about the growing risk of localized petrol shortages, citing critically low fuel stocks, delayed customs clearance of imported shipments, rising demand, and mounting financial pressures that could disrupt supplies if immediate action is not taken.
In a letter addressed to Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, the Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) said the country currently has around 370,000 metric tons of petrol, equivalent to approximately 15 days of national consumption.
Customs Delays Affect Fuel Availability
According to the OCAC, the actual fuel available for distribution is lower than reported because several recently imported petrol cargoes remain stuck at ports due to delays in customs clearance through the WEBOC system.
The council noted that three additional petrol cargoes are expected to arrive between July 15 and July 17, making their timely clearance essential to maintaining uninterrupted fuel supplies, particularly in upcountry regions.
The industry also pointed out that fuel inventories came under additional pressure after a planned Pakistan State Oil (PSO) import shipment was not approved by the National Coordination and Management Council (NCMC) in June.
Rising Demand Adds Pressure
The OCAC warned that expectations of higher international oil prices have prompted dealers and consumers to increase fuel purchases, placing further strain on already limited petrol stocks.
Industry Calls for Immediate Government Action
The council also highlighted severe liquidity challenges facing oil marketing companies, stating that Rs. 66.7 billion in outstanding Price Differential Claims (PDCs) remain unpaid.
According to the industry, these delayed payments have weakened companies’ ability to finance new fuel imports, while rising global oil prices are further increasing working capital requirements.
The OCAC has urged the government to:
- Release outstanding Price Differential Claims without delay.
- Resolve customs clearance issues at ports.
- Facilitate the timely import and transportation of petroleum products.
The council warned that without swift intervention, Pakistan could experience localized fuel supply disruptions in the coming days.
