ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has announced that Pakistan’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply from Qatar has been restored, with a cargo vessel expected to arrive at Port Qasim on Tuesday.
Speaking during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Petroleum chaired by Senator Umar Farooq, the minister said the incoming shipment would help meet Karachi’s energy demand as well as broader national requirements amid ongoing regional tensions.
He noted that instability in the region had not fully subsided, but efforts were underway to maintain fuel supply lines. Responding to criticism over rising petroleum prices, the minister explained that the increase was linked to commitments made with the International Monetary Fund to raise petroleum levy in the federal budget.
Committee members questioned the government over sharp price hikes, particularly on existing fuel stocks. In response, the minister said the adjustments were necessary to maintain liquidity and ensure uninterrupted supply.
Officials informed the committee that petroleum reserves had increased since the onset of the regional conflict. Crude oil stocks rose from 436,000 tonnes on March 1 to 515,000 tonnes, while diesel reserves increased to 597,000 tonnes. Petrol stocks currently stand at 662,000 tonnes.
Lawmakers also raised concerns about the timing of price hikes, with some questioning whether the burden had been unfairly shifted onto consumers. The committee vowed to continue oversight of petroleum pricing decisions in future sessions.
