Pakistan has “largely secured” petrol cargoes for March and April, a high-level government committee was informed on Tuesday, as the nation works to stabilize its energy supply chain against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Proactive Planning Ensures Supply Stability
The announcement came during a meeting of the committee monitoring petrol prices, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. According to a statement from the finance ministry, the committee reviewed the energy supply situation and assessed developments in global oil and gas markets.
Members were assured that scheduled cargo inflows are continuing and that “petrol cargoes for March and now for April have largely been secured.” The statement added that additional shipments are planned to further strengthen the country’s supply buffers.
Government Prioritizes Uninterrupted Supply
Finance Minister Aurangzeb underscored that “proactive planning, diversified procurement strategies, and close coordination” among stakeholders have enabled Pakistan to maintain a stable domestic supply position despite significant global volatility.
He directed all relevant authorities to continue vigilant monitoring of international developments, stock levels, and supply chain dynamics to ensure timely and coordinated policy responses. Aurangzeb reiterated that ensuring the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products remains the government’s foremost priority.
Context of Global Conflict and Price Stability
The monitoring committee was formed earlier this month by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to oversee the prices and movement of petroleum products. This move followed disruptions in global oil supply lines due to the Middle East conflict, which previously prompted Pakistan to increase petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per litre each.
In response to that price hike, PM Shehbaz announced an austerity and fuel conservation plan. Since then, the government has kept petrol and diesel prices unchanged in two consecutive weekly reviews.
Diversified Sourcing Strategies
Meeting participants were also briefed on “diversified sourcing strategies and logistical arrangements” with key partner countries to secure both crude and refined products. These coordinated efforts are aimed at reinforcing national energy security and safeguarding supply continuity under evolving market conditions.
The meeting was attended by Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, National Food Security and Research Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Maritime Affairs Minister Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhary, alongside other senior officials.
