KARACHI: Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) is set to import its first shipment of Nigerian Bonny Light crude from Vitol in September, marking a significant shift in Pakistan’s crude oil sourcing strategy, according to a media report.
The 500,000-barrel shipment of light-sweet crude is expected to reach Karachi by late September, offering a cheaper alternative to more expensive Middle Eastern oil.
This move follows Pakistan’s first deal to import U.S. crude, also supplied by Vitol, by Cnergyico, which is scheduled to arrive in October.
Currently, Pakistan relies heavily on the Middle East for its oil imports, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE being the primary suppliers.
However, like other Asian refiners, Pakistan’s industry has been exploring alternatives due to the rising costs of Middle Eastern crude.
In addition to the U.S. and Nigerian supplies, Pakistan has shown increased interest in alternative sources, such as U.S. West Texas Intermediate and Kazakh CPC Blend. The Bonny Light crude, known for its high gasoline and diesel yields, will be Pakistan’s first purchase of this type, reflecting a growing trend in Asian refiners seeking cheaper alternatives.
Oil remains Pakistan’s largest import, and the country’s crude and petroleum products amounted to $11.3 billion in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, accounting for nearly a fifth of the total import bill.
